This archive report was first published on 5 January 2022.
Ruto-allied MPs Lose Bid to Alter Political Parties Bill ¶
Published on January 5, 2022
Members of Parliament allied to Deputy President William Ruto attempted to introduce changes to the Political Parties Bill 2021 but were met with resistance from the majority of lawmakers.
During a special sitting on January 5, 2022, the MPs proposed amendments to every clause in the bill in an effort to force divisions and delay the conclusion of the debate. However, their efforts were thwarted as the majority of MPs rejected their proposed changes.
One of the proposed amendments, submitted by Garissa Township MP Aden Duale, sought to remove timelines for coalitions to register with the office of the registrar of political parties. However, this proposal was rejected by 128 MPs, with only 104 supporting its removal.
Another amendment, submitted by Nambale MP Sakwa Bunyasi, sought to bar coalition parties from fielding candidates in positions other than the presidency. However, this proposal was also rejected, with 132 MPs voting to allow coalition parties to field candidates in all positions.
The house also rejected an attempt by Kiminini MP Didmus Barasa to amend the bill by deleting a clause that punishes members of political parties who promote ideals of other parties.
By the end of the day, the house had barely dispensed with 10 clauses, with the majority of MPs voting against the proposed amendments.
