This archive report was first published on 20 October 2019.
Financial records from the 2017 general election have exposed a stark contrast in the financial capabilities of Jubilee Party and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
According to audited accounts, Jubilee Party had a substantial Sh1.4 billion in its account in the period preceding the August 2017 General Election.
Breaking down the figures, Jubilee collected Sh1.11 billion from its members, Sh621.8 million from nomination fees, Sh387 million as contributions from members, and Sh97.1 million from party membership fees.
On the other hand, ODM had a significantly lower Sh434 million in its account in 2016/17 and Sh161 million in 2017/18, indicating a cash-strapped affair that could have handicapped its campaigns.
The financial disparity between the two parties is evident, with a Sh1 billion funding difference between them. ODM collected significantly lower fees and donations from its members compared to Jubilee.
As ODM battles for funding from the Political Parties Fund, the playing field remains uneven. Jubilee's financial muscle is further highlighted by its Sh69.6 million annual rent for the near-empty Jubilee House along Thika Road.
Additionally, Jubilee collects Sh2 million each month from its 205 MPs, Sh500,000 from its 25 governors, and Sh1.75 million from its 582 MCAs, excluding those nominated.
Published on October 20, 2019.
