The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP), led by Registrar Mr. JC Lorionokou, paid a courtesy call on Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya as part of an ongoing nationwide tour aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Registrar’s office and county governments.
Speaking at the County Headquarters in Kitale, Mr. Lorionokou said the visit forms part of a week-long engagement targeting regional offices across the country. He noted that the Registrar currently operates 30 regional offices and is working towards expanding its presence to all 47 counties.
According to the Registrar, the objective of the tour is to enhance accessibility, improve service delivery, and strengthen engagement with political parties and stakeholders at the grassroots level.
“We are here to connect with the regions, to listen, and to strengthen collaboration. The support we have received here in Trans Nzoia is commendable. We have not received complaints, and that accessibility is appreciated,” said Mr. Lorionokou.
Preparing for a Peaceful Electoral Cycle
The Registrar emphasized that preparations for the next electoral cycle are already underway, with political activities expected to intensify in the coming months.
He called upon political leaders, aspirants, and supporters to uphold the rule of law and conduct their campaigns peacefully, warning against any actions that could undermine national cohesion.
“We want candidates to campaign and participate within the law. Preparations for the next election cycle are already underway and are expected to begin around July or August, leading to party nominations early next year,” he explained.
Mr. Lorionokou stressed that preventing political violence remains a priority and highlighted the need for stronger institutions, civic engagement, and continuous capacity building for political parties.
“We must learn from past experiences. Violence has no place in our politics. Strong institutions and meaningful engagement from political parties and the public are the way forward,” he added.
Governor Natembeya Raises Concerns Over Political Intolerance
Governor George Natembeya welcomed the Registrar’s delegation and used the opportunity to highlight challenges affecting the country’s political landscape.
The Governor expressed concern over rising political intolerance and the persistence of violence in some parts of the country, noting that fear and intimidation continue to discourage citizens from fully participating in democratic processes.
“Violence has become deeply ingrained in our politics. Some people cannot safely participate in certain areas, and the lack of action against perpetrators has bred impunity,” said Governor Natembeya.
He further observed that political competition should be based on ideas and service delivery rather than intimidation or hostility.
Calls for Electoral and Political Reforms
Governor Natembeya also questioned the current framework for political party financing, arguing that it disproportionately benefits larger political parties while limiting opportunities for emerging parties and independent voices.
According to the Governor, equitable access to resources is essential in fostering healthy democratic competition and encouraging innovation in political leadership.
“This unfairness kills democratic competition. Emerging political formations with fresh ideas often struggle because they lack the resources available to larger parties,” he noted.
The Governor further lamented the growing perception that politics is primarily a vehicle for personal enrichment rather than public service, saying such attitudes discourage capable and well-intentioned individuals from seeking leadership positions.
“Running under a certain party is often viewed as betraying your community. Politics is seen as a way to enrich oneself rather than serve the people. This perception discourages many good leaders from joining politics,” he said.
Promoting Civic Education and Democratic Values
Governor Natembeya emphasized the importance of civic education in transforming political culture and empowering citizens to make informed decisions.
He called for sustained efforts by government agencies, political parties, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to educate voters on the importance of issue-based politics, accountability, and peaceful coexistence.
“We need a system where competition is healthy, where opponents can shake hands after elections. Civic education is key to helping citizens understand politics as service and not personal gain,” he stated.
The Governor also urged stakeholders to address the growing influence of money in politics, arguing that leadership positions should be earned through merit, integrity, and ideas rather than financial muscle.
“Merit and ideas, not financial power, should determine outcomes. We must promote a culture of healthy competition, mutual respect, and focus on serving the people,” Governor Natembeya said.
A Shared Commitment to Peaceful Elections
The meeting underscored the shared commitment between the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties and the County Government of Trans Nzoia to promote peaceful political engagement, strengthen democratic institutions, and encourage responsible leadership.
As preparations for the next electoral cycle gather momentum, leaders called upon political parties, aspirants, and citizens alike to embrace dialogue, respect the rule of law, and work collectively toward safeguarding Kenya’s democratic gains.
Key Takeaways:
✔️ The Registrar of Political Parties is undertaking a nationwide tour to strengthen regional engagement and service delivery.
✔️ Preparations for the next election cycle are already underway, with party activities expected to intensify in the coming months.
✔️ Political leaders have been urged to promote peaceful, lawful, and issue-based campaigns.
✔️ Governor Natembeya called for reforms in political financing, stronger civic education, and greater accountability in politics.
✔️ Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peaceful, inclusive, and democratic electoral processes.
