- Multiparty democracy plays a vital role in fostering open and transparent governance.
- It empowers citizens with the ability to choose their representatives freely and express their political opinions without fear of retribution.
Image: FILE
Recent reports highlighting the alleged meddling of external parties into the affairs of opposition political parties especially by the government raises concerns about the state of multiparty democracy in Kenya.
In light of the current political situation, it is evident that safeguarding this vital foundation of democracy is essential for fostering an open and inclusive society.
The fight for multiparty democracy which is seen as Kenya’s second fight for liberation happened in 1992 when Kenyans went to the streets to call for the repeal of Section 2A of the Constitution. Then President Daniel arap Moi bowed to immense pressure from civil society and Kenyans at large and agreed to the amendment.
This historic shift broke the chains of single-party dominance and paved the way for a more inclusive political system. However, this initial progress was met with resistance and subsequent challenges.
Multiparty democracy is integral to nurturing an open society that upholds transparency, accountability and political plurality. By enabling citizens to freely choose their representatives and express their political opinions, multiparty democracy promotes healthy competition, fosters inclusivity and guards against tyranny and abuse of power.
However, recent developments in Kenya raise concerns about the erosion of multiparty democracy. Alleged interference in the affairs of opposition parties and the consolidation of power by a dominant ruling party threaten the principles of fair competition and autonomy that underpin a vibrant multiparty system.
Multiparty democracy plays a vital role in fostering open and transparent governance. It empowers citizens with the ability to choose their representatives freely and express their political opinions without fear of retribution. By allowing the formation of multiple political parties, a diverse range of ideologies, perspectives and policy alternatives can be presented to the electorate, facilitating healthy political discourse and competition.
One of the primary reasons for the establishment of multiparty democracy is to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a single ruling party or individual. The checks and balances inherent in a multiparty system act as safeguards against authoritarianism, ensuring that power is dispersed among different factions. This diffusion of power encourages accountability, as parties and leaders must strive to earn the trust and support of the people to maintain their positions.
Multiparty democracy is essential for fostering inclusivity and ensuring the representation of diverse voices within society. It provides a platform for different communities, interest groups, and marginalised populations to have their concerns and aspirations heard and addressed. A robust multiparty system promotes inclusivity by encouraging parties to build broad-based coalitions, thereby fostering national unity and social cohesion.
To protect the gains made in Kenya's political pluralism, it is imperative to take proactive measures to safeguard multiparty democracy. The government, civil society and citizens must collectively uphold and defend the principles of political pluralism, ensuring that all parties are free to operate independently without undue interference.
Sustaining multiparty democracy demands a collective commitment from all stakeholders. Political leaders must embrace the principles of fair competition, inclusivity and respect for the rule of law.
Civil society organisations and the media should remain vigilant in holding those in power accountable and promoting transparency. The government of the day must commit itself to not only protecting but promoting the concept of multiparty system by not being seen as if they are interfering with the affairs of opposition parties or denying them their legally provided opportunities.
Senior programme officer at Article 19 Eastern Africa