Corporate Communication Unit.
Lion Place Nairobi, Kenya; February 5, 2021
The ORPP convened a plenary Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) meeting on Thursday 4th and 5th February, 2021 in Maanzoni Lodge, Machakos County. The objectives of the meeting were to: review PPLC activities within the electoral cycle; examine its action plan on the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI); consider the recently proposed guidelines on the political parties virtual activities; provide input over the Political Parties Registration Regulations and deliberate on the implication of Katiba Institute ruling on parties nomination process.
The PPLC’s Steering Committee Ag Chairperson Evans Misati, makes his remarks during the meeting at Maanzoni Lodge, Machakos County.
The Registrar, Ann Nderitu during the official opening of the forum, called on political parties to ensure they have proper institutional structures that promote democracy and ensure transparency for the good of Kenyan people. While highlighting the recent violence incident experienced at a forum where two MPs engaged in fist fight, the Registrar cautioned that is fundamental for officials in political parties to desist from raising political intolerance especially as we gear up towards the 2022 general elections.“All parties should ensure they purpose putting the needs of Kenyans into the fore in all realms of life for a cohesive and peaceful co-existence”, she guided.
Members of PPLC were formally introduced to the Assistant Registrars of Political Parties Mr. Ali Surraw and CPA Florence T Birya. In their remarks, the two emphasized on the need for parties to embrace and integrating appropriate technology in management and conducting of party activities. “I call on the political parties to adhere with relevant laws pertinent to running of political affairs. I will work with commitment, diligence and passion for our Office as we serve you as one of our key stakeholders”, CPA Florence remarked.
On his part, Ali Surraw observed that ORPP is looked upon by many stakeholders to shape the politics of the country. “It is only prudent that we work together as stakeholders with energy and commitment to shape that view. This will also enable us guide our people that we serve in view of continually growing democracy and facilitate their active participation”, noted Ali.
Prof. Abdi Guliye, a Commissioner with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), cautioned on the need to conduct political activities in a peaceful manner to avoid a repeat of the 2007/08 post-election aftermath. He called on parties to have decent campaigns and respect one another.
The PPLC is a tripartite dialogue platform comprising of ORPP, IEBC and political parties. It is established under section 38 of the Political Parties Act, 2011 to be operational at national and county level.