The Attorney General has issued a 60-day ultimatum to societies across the country to file overdue annual returns, warning that those who fail to comply risk suspension or cancellation of their registration.
In a notice on May 15, the Office of the Attorney General, through the Registrar of Societies, said that all registered organizations must submit their annual returns within 60 days, detailing their activities, finances, and governance.
“The Registrar of Societies wishes to notify all registered societies of their obligation to file annual returns in accordance with the law,” read part of the notice.
Attorney General Sets Filing Rules and Warns of Action for Non-Compliance
The Attorney General said filing annual returns is a legal requirement under Section 30(1) of the Societies Act (Cap 108), which requires every registered society to submit returns, accounts, and other documents each year. Rule 13 of the Societies Rules, 1968, sets the deadline for submitting these returns as March 31 for the previous calendar year.
The Attorney General added that the returns must be filed using the prescribed Form I and signed by three officials of the society.
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The Registrar of Societies warned that organizations that fail to comply with the new deadline will face action under Section 12(1)(e) of the Act. This may include notices to show cause and could lead to suspension or cancellation of registration.
“All societies are therefore urged to take immediate steps to comply with the law within the stipulated period,” the notice stated.
The Office of the Attorney General said the Registrar of Societies is responsible for regulating registered entities and ensuring they follow legal and governance requirements.
Societies seeking clarification or assistance have been advised to contact the Registrar of Societies at the Ground Floor of Sheria House in Nairobi via telephone numbers 020-2227461, 0732 529995, or 0700 072929, or through email at [email protected] and [email protected].
Registrar of Societies Mandated to Enforce Compliance Across the Sector
The Registrar of Societies is responsible for regulating all registered organizations in Kenya, including community groups, churches, professional bodies, and non-governmental organizations.
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Once registered, these groups are required by law to keep proper records and regularly update the Registrar on their leadership, activities, and financial status.
Filing annual returns is part of this requirement and helps confirm that a society is active and in compliance with the law.
Organizations that fail to comply risk losing their legal status, which can prevent them from operating, accessing funding, or entering into official agreements.
The requirement also allows the government to track registered groups and ensure they are run transparently and accountably.
