KENYA : There is need for legal reforms to compel political parties to ensure inclusivity and equal representation while filling positions in both the national and county assemblies.
Speaking during the official launch of the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) Trans Nzoia Regional Office, Registrar of Political Parties Ann Nderitu revealed that 21 county assemblies including Trans Nzoia, currently do not have representatives for People Living with Disabilities (PWDs).
She said the anomaly can only be corrected through legal reforms where parties will be required to ensure that there are nominative posts reserved for PWDs and at no time would be the posts be filled with any other person not living with disabilities.
Revealing that there are 92 legally registered political parties in the country, Nderitu said the constitution gives room for any Kenyan to belong to a political party without being coerced and the law does not spell out the maximum number of political parties which should be there in the country.
In a bid to mitigate political disputes as the country prepares ground for 2027 general election, Nderitu urged parties to ensure transparency and accountability in all the structures, procedures and performance.
"As we set the ground ready for the 2027 election exercise, we call upon all political players to exercise patience, understanding and maturity in an effort to ensure peace before, during and after election. Let all politicians put the interests of the Country at heart," she pleaded.
ORPP Assistant Registrar, Registration and Coordination of Field Services Florence Birya revealed that if resources allow, plans are underway to ensure that besides the 12 regional offices which are in operation, more offices are set up across the 47 counties to help decentralize services.
As she urged political parties to embrace the principle of inclusivity, Birya disclosed there are intentional efforts to help empower PWDs in effort to provide a level playing ground.
Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi said political sanity and adherence to the rule of law will be key elements which should be be observed by all players as the country slowly prepares for 2027 General Election, promising government's commitment to ensure peace prevails.
Representing Governor George Natembeya was Chief Officer in charge of Public Service Management Philip Kapten who called for strengthening of collaboration between national government and county governments for improved service delivery.
The opening of the office to serve West Pokot, Turkana and Trans Nzoia counties was a welcome idea for residents more so politicians, who said it will help bring services closer reducing the distance to travel all the way to Nairobi to seek the services.
