This archive report was first published on 19 September 2019.
On September 19, 2019, the registrar of political parties, Ann Nderitu, made a decision that dealt a significant blow to the Tanga Tanga political movement.
The movement, famously aligned to pro-Ruto diehards, had sought to have its name reserved as a political party. However, Ann Nderitu refused to register the name, citing Article 91 of the Kenyan constitution and Section 8 of the Political Party Acts 2011.
According to Ann, the name 'Tanga Tanga' does not pass the constitutional test for party names, as it goes against the principles of peace and harmony. She also expressed concerns that the name is ill-fated and may be perceived as offensive.
In a letter to the group of politicians who had sought to register the name, Ann Nderitu wrote, 'This is to inform you that the names suggested are not in line with section 8 of the Political Party Acts 2011. The name shall not be in line with Article 91 of the Kenyan constitution. Kindly suggest another name.'
The name 'Tanga Tanga' is a Swahili translation of 'roaming aimlessly,' which may not be the most auspicious choice for a political movement.
Despite the setback, the Tanga Tanga movement remains a significant force in Kenyan politics, with its sympathizers still loyal to the cause.
