The registration of a political party in Kenya involves two stages: provisional registration followed by full registration.
Starting a political party in Kenya is no small feat. The Political Parties Act, 2011 sets strict requirements to ensure that only serious and representative parties are registered.
If you are planning to form a party, here’s a simplified guide on how to do it, step by step according to Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.
Step 1: Apply for Provisional Registration
The process begins with provisional registration.
- Name Search: Write to the Registrar of Political Parties to request a name search. The proposed name must not be offensive, too long, or similar to an existing party or legal entity.
- Submit Application: Once the name is approved, submit a written application signed by the interim officials of your party using the Registrar’s forms.
You must attach:
- Signed minutes of the first meeting of the founding members
- A typed constitution meeting requirements in the Political Parties Act
- An undertaking to comply with the law and party’s code of conduct
- A request to register your party’s symbol
If successful, you will receive a Provisional Registration Certificate within 30 days. This certificate is valid for 180 days. During this period, you can recruit members and set up offices.
Also Read: How to Join Gachagua & Other Political Parties in Kenya
Step 2: Meet Membership and Office Requirements
Before applying for full registration, your party must:
- Recruit at least 1,000 registered voters from more than half of Kenya’s counties
- Establish a national head office and branch offices in more than half of the counties
- Ensure diversity in membership and leadership, reflecting gender balance, minorities, and regional representation
Step 3: Apply for Full Registration
Once you meet the above conditions, submit an application for full registration using the Registrar’s forms. You must include:
- Non-refundable application fees of Ksh 100,000
- Certified extracts of voter registers showing your members
- An affidavit confirming that no member belongs to another party
- Proof of diversity in members and leadership
- Certificates of Good Conduct and other clearances for governing body members
- Evidence of physical addresses for all offices
The Registrar will review the documents and, if satisfied, issue a Certificate of Full Registration.
Also Read: Registrar of Political Parties Position Declared Vacant After CEO Lands IEBC Job
Step 4: Enjoy the Benefits of Full Registration
Fully registered parties can:
- Be identified on the ballot during elections
- Receive political party funding
- Get guaranteed broadcasting time
- Conduct official party meetings and campaigns
Deregistration and Suspension
Failing to follow the law can lead to suspension or deregistration. The Registrar can deregister a party for violating the constitution, election laws, or party fund regulations.
A deregistered party loses all privileges and cannot reapply for five years.
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