Political parties only tools to ascend to power – Law expert

By Robert Mutasi

International law expert Dr Maxwell Miyawa has said that political parties in Kenya are usually only used as vehicles for individuals to get into power.

Miwaya who is also an adherent of Third World Approaches to International Law (Twail) has stated that political parties have failed to serve their mandate. 

In an interview with Citizen TV, the law expert noted that while Kenyans expect too much from the political parties, most of them are usually formed with the main focus of being to capture power. 

He noted that most political parties usually promise to serve Kenyans as they are formed but they do the opposite once they help a politician win an election.

Dr Miyawa has also noted that political parties have manifestos they use to campaign once they ascend to power they change the rhythm. 

"Political parties are actually vehicles for capturing power and that is usually their main agenda," he said, accusing them of violating democratic rights.

The law expert also pointed out that most politicians form parties for self-interest. He accused a majority of them of being involved in corruption scandals.

"The ideologies are supposed to entice the people but once the people have galvanized and the political party is in power, its functionaries shift," he explained.

Most political parties in the country are formed on tribal and regional basis.

Today, Kenya has over 50 registered political parties, most of which are usually associated with a tribe or region.

However, there are only a few popular parties. 

Based on the most recent survey, the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is the most popular party followed by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

Others are Jubilee party, Wiper Party and KANU.