The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) and the Registrar of Political Parties have initiated a joint audit of all 98 political parties to ensure fair inclusion of women, youth, and marginalized groups in 2027 General Election nominations. The audit, part of preparations for the 2027 polls, focuses on compliance with constitutional and legal requirements for equality, inclusion, and non-discrimination, with gender equality as a central pillar. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set deadlines for parties to submit certified nomination rules by October 30 and final documents by November 6, emphasizing that exclusion of marginalized groups could lock them out of electoral contests for the entire cycle.
The audit comes amid persistent challenges for women in Kenyan politics, where female candidates often face unfair nomination practices. Women politicians report being coerced into negotiated democracy, where male candidates are prioritized, and lacking financial or logistical support from parties once nominated. A recent analysis revealed that some parties reduced application fees for women, youth, and persons with disabilities by up to 50% for 2027 contests, a move the IEBC praised as a step toward inclusivity. However, critics argue that such measures alone do not address deeper structural barriers to political participation.
NGEC Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa emphasized that the audit marks a shift from past approaches, where accountability for gender equality was deferred until election day. “We are critiquing the nomination process itself,” she stated, noting that women often lose gains at the nomination stage, with their names removed from candidate lists or denied certificates despite winning internal contests. Jaldesa, a former Isiolo woman representative, stressed the need for parties to nominate women in their strongholds to ensure fair competition. “If we are serious about increasing women’s numbers, we must support them from the start,” she said.
The audit will evaluate parties’ adherence to the two-thirds principle, which mandates gender parity in elected positions. Jaldesa highlighted that the commission will monitor the entire electoral process, from nomination rules to election day, to prevent last-minute violations. This proactive approach contrasts with previous efforts, where enforcement of inclusion criteria was reactive. The NGEC’s focus on early intervention aims to prevent the systemic exclusion of women and marginalized groups, which has historically limited their representation in national and county assemblies.
The IEBC’s August election calendar underscores the urgency of the audit, as parties must finalize nomination rules before the 2027 polls. The commission warned that parties failing to include youth, persons with disabilities, or minorities in their nomination processes effectively exclude these groups from the electoral cycle. While some parties have taken steps to reduce financial barriers for underrepresented groups, advocates argue that structural reforms are needed to address deeper inequities in party dynamics and resource allocation.
Public interest groups have welcomed the audit as a critical measure to advance political inclusion, but remain cautious about its implementation. The NGEC’s mandate to hold parties accountable at the nomination stage could set a precedent for future elections, potentially reshaping how political parties engage with women and marginalized communities. However, challenges remain, including resistance from traditional power structures and the need for sustained oversight to ensure compliance.
The audit reflects broader efforts to align Kenya’s political landscape with constitutional mandates for equality. As the 2027 election cycle approaches, the NGEC and IEBC’s collaborative approach signals a commitment to addressing historical imbalances. With women comprising only 6% of Kenya’s political leadership, the audit’s success could mark a turning point in the country’s journey toward inclusive governance.