How the Political Parties Bill could change the 2017 political landscape

How the Political Parties Bill could change the 2017 political landscape

Elected leaders whose parties will merge will automatically assume membership of the new party without losing their seats, if the new Political Parties Bill is made law.

Those opposed to the formation to the merger can opt to join another political outfit or become independent leaders while retaining their seats.

These are among a raft of amendments contained in the Political Parties’ Act Amendment Bill – changes that are said to be preparing ground for the merger of the Jubilee Alliance parties, while cushioning their members from losing their seats

The proposals by National Assembly’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee provides for a merger of parties under two circumstances: the formation of a new party or merging into an already registered political party.

The president, deputy president, governors, members of parliament and county assemblies of the parties folding up to amalgamate into new outfit have been shielded into retaining their positions.

In repealing sections of the Political Parties Act, a merger of parties will give elected party members direct membership ticket of the new political party.

Those objected to the membership of the newly registered political party after a merger, will continue serving in their respective positions for the remainder of their term and they may choose to join another political party or opt to be independent members within thirty days of registration of the new party.

Jubilee is keen to see the Bill approved by Parliament  as this will secure its members elective posts after their merger.

Upon registration of a new party from a merger, the names, symbols, logos, slogans and colours of the parent and affiliate parties would be struck off from the register of parties, not to be used by any party in the subsequent election.

This is only permitted when the merging parties agree to retain certain aspects of their names, logos, symbols, slogans and colours.

If one is involved in the formation of another political party, joins another party, publicly advocates for the formation of another party or supports ideologies or interests of rival political party, they shall be deemed to have resigned from the sponsor party.

A party can only expel its members on infringement only after according them a fair opportunity to be heard.

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kenya Politics Mps Political Parties Bill

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