An article appearing in the Star Newspaper of Friday, 28 November 2025, by Assistant Registrar Mr. Ali Surraw highlights the gradual institutional growth and strengthening of political parties, noting that effective governance relies on strong, issue-based, and well-structured political organizations. It explains that political parties are central to democratic processes because they mobilise citizens, articulate interests, recruit leaders, and provide platforms for political participation.
The article observes that while many parties have historically been personality-driven or ethnically anchored, there is now a positive trend toward more mature, policy-oriented organizations. Key indicators of this maturation include improved internal governance, enhanced financial management, better compliance with regulatory requirements, and increased openness to citizen engagement.
Additionally, development partners and oversight institutions, such as the ORPP, play a critical role by providing training, supporting institutional reforms, and enforcing standards. These reforms help parties advance toward professionalism, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
The main thrust of the article is that political parties are increasingly becoming more accountable, better structured, and more issue-focused, developments that ultimately strengthen democracy and foster more meaningful political competition.
NB: The Newspaper is available in the Resource Centre.
To read more news reviews, visit ORPP News Dashboard