Trans Nzoia: There is a need for legal reforms to compel political parties to ensure inclusivity and equal representation while filling positions in both the national and county assemblies. Speaking during the official launch of the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) Trans Nzoia Regional Office, Registrar of Political Parties Ann Nderitu revealed that 21 county assemblies including Trans Nzoia, currently do not have representatives for People Living with Disabilities (PWDs).
According to Kenya News Agency, Nderitu stated that the anomaly can only be corrected through legal reforms where parties will be required to ensure that there are nominative posts reserved for PWDs and at no time would the posts be filled with any other person not living with disabilities. She also highlighted that there are 92 legally registered political parties in the country, and the constitution allows any Kenyan to belong to a political party without coercion, as there is no maximum limit on the number of political parties.
In a bid to mitigate political disputes as the country prepares for the 2027 general election, Nderitu urged parties to ensure transparency and accountability in all structures, procedures, and performance. She emphasized the need for political players to exercise patience, understanding, and maturity to ensure peace before, during, and after the election.
ORPP Assistant Registrar, Registration and Coordination of Field Services, Florence Birya, revealed that if resources allow, there are plans to set up more offices across the 47 counties to help decentralize services. She urged political parties to embrace the principle of inclusivity, disclosing intentional efforts to empower PWDs and provide a level playing ground.
Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi emphasized the importance of political sanity and adherence to the rule of law as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election, promising the government’s commitment to ensure peace prevails. Representing Governor George Natembeya was Chief Officer in charge of Public Service Management, Philip Kapten, who called for strengthening collaboration between national and county governments for improved service delivery.
The opening of the office to serve West Pokot, Turkana, and Trans Nzoia counties was welcomed by residents, especially politicians, as it will help bring services closer, reducing the need to travel to Nairobi. Also present during the launch were ORPP Assistant Registrar Regulation and Compliance Ali Abdullahi Surraw, Trans Nzoia ORPP Regional Coordinator Serah Wachira, among others.