The Political Parties Fund (PPF) in Kenya is established under Section 23 of the Political Parties Act to support political parties financially and enhance democracy. The Registrar of Political Parties administers the fund.
Sources of the Political Parties Fund
- Not less than 0.3% of the national government’s revenue, as allocated by Parliament.
- Contributions and donations from any lawful source.
- Unspent funds at the end of the financial year remain in the Fund for future use.
Distribution of the Political Parties Fund
The Political Parties Fund is allocated as follows:
- 80% – Based on the total votes secured by each political party in the last general election.
- 15% – Based on the number of elected candidates from special interest groups (women, youth, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities).
- 5% – For administrative expenses of the Political Parties Fund.
Eligibility for Political Parties to Receive Funding
A political party must meet the following conditions to receive funding from the Political Parties Fund:
- Secure at least 3% of the total votes in the last general election.
- Ensure no more than two-thirds of its office bearers are of the same gender.
- Include representation of special interest groups in its governing body.
- Have at least:
- 20 elected Members of the National Assembly.
- 3 elected Senators.
- 3 elected Governors.
- 40 elected Members of County Assemblies (MCAs).
Computation of Votes
The total number of votes a political party secures is calculated by adding up votes from the Presidential, Parliamentary, Gubernatorial, and County Assembly elections.
Other Ways Political Parties Are Funded in Kenya
Apart from the Political Parties Fund, political parties in Kenya can receive funding through:
- Membership fees.
- Voluntary contributions from lawful sources.
- Donations, bequests, and grants (excluding those from foreign governments, non-citizens, intergovernmental or non-governmental organizations).
- Income from party investments, projects, or undertakings.
Foreign assistance is allowed only in the form of technical support, but not monetary contributions or assets.
Disclosure of Party Finances
Political parties must disclose all funds and resources obtained from any source to the Registrar of Political Parties.
Purposes of the Political Parties Fund
Political parties must use the Fund for democratic purposes, including:
- Promoting representation of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities in Parliament and County Assemblies.
- Encouraging citizen participation in politics.
- Covering election expenses and broadcasting political party policies.
- Organizing civic education on democracy and electoral processes.
- Shaping public opinion through political influence.
- Administrative and staff expenses (limited to 30% of funds allocated).
At least 30% of the funds must be used for promoting special interest groups’ representation in governance.
Prohibited Uses of the Political Parties Fund
Political parties cannot use the Political Parties Fund for:
- Direct or indirect payment of allowances, rewards, or benefits to party members or supporters (except staff salaries).
- Financing or contributing to any cause, event, or activity in violation of public officers’ code of ethics.
- Establishing businesses or acquiring financial interests in businesses or property.
- Any activity that undermines multiparty democracy or electoral processes.
Conclusion
The Political Parties Fund ensures financial transparency and fairness in multiparty democracy. It reduces over-reliance on private funding, prevents corruption, and promotes inclusivity in political participation.
For further details, refer to Part 3 of the Political Parties Act: Political Parties Act.
