Ways of making political parties accountable to the people of Kenya

Over the past 25 years, Kenya’s political landscape has undergone a major metamorphosis, culminating in one of Africa’s most vibrant multiparty democracies with over 66 approved and active political parties. This development has not only revolutionised politics, its effects have had far-reaching and transformative consequences on how we conduct our socio-economic activities. Political parties play a pivotal role in society because they are the vehicles used to select or elect leaders who represent us.

It therefore follows that the manner in which parties conduct their activities before, during and after elections will have inevitable consequences on how the country surges forward or regresses. Like any other public organisation, if political parties or their leadership is not transparent and accountable, they are likely to deny the public quality leadership that the country yearns for. It is therefore important for Kenya, as a modern and progressive democracy, to embrace tools that will ensure parties deliver on their mandate since they are funded by public funds.