President Uhuru Signs Political Parties Bill into Law

President Kenyatta on Thursday signed the Political Parties (Amendment) Bill, 2021 into law.

The National Assembly approved the bill early this month before it was referred to the Senate where it was passed on Wednesday without amendments.

The new piece of legislation introduces the concept of coalition political parties, outlining the functions of political parties as well as changing the criteria of accessing the Political Parties Fund.

It also gives the Registrar of Political Parties the power to certify political party membership lists, nomination rules, and other provisions aimed at strengthening the management of political parties and enhancing democracy.

Kenyatta assented to the bill at a brief ceremony attended by Attorney-General Paul Kihara, Senate Speaker Ken Lusaka, his National Assembly counterpart Justin Muturi and House Majority Leaders Samuel Poghisio (Senate) and Amos Kimunya (National Assembly).

Also present was Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua, State House Deputy Chief of Staff Njee Muturi, and House Clerks Jeremiah Nyegenye (Senate) and Michael Sialai (National Assembly).

The president had earlier this month castigated MPs allied to Deputy President William Ruto for voting against the bill for short-term political gain.

“The [political parties] bill is giving us an opportunity to be able to formally work together across political parties in the interest of the nation,” Kenyatta said on January 13th.