CHALLENGES FACING INTRA-PARTY DEMOCRACY IN KENYA: AN EXAMINATION OF SIX MAJOR POLITICAL PARTIES IN THE PERIOD 2002-2012.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish the factors affecting intra-party democracy.Methodology: The study used descriptive survey design. The sample consisted 60 respondents. Random sampling technique was used to select the 60 members from the population. The instrument that was used for the research was a questionnaire. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used for data analysis. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics which involved the use of means, standard deviation, correlation co-efficient and regression analysis. Subsequently, coding was done using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science). Data was presented in tables and graphs with accompanying descriptive details.  Results: The findings found out that majority of parties do not discourage election violence.  The finding also indicated that majority of parties do not ensures absolute transparency in the use of public funds and managerial practices. The findings further indicated that there is a low degree of accountability in the financial management of the parties. Further, the results implied that parties in Kenya have a low rate of retention of party members.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommended Political parties in Kenya to hold intraparty elections frequently as they are supposed to since doing so will boost the intraparty democracy. Political parties in Kenya were also recommended to come up with promotion drives that will enhance members’ participation in the management of party affairs as doing so will boost the intraparty democracy. Political parties in Kenya need to put in place internal controls and structures that enhance the accountability in the financial management of the parties as doing so will boost the intraparty democracy. Political parties in Kenya need to put in place loyalty programs for their members so as to boost the retention rate of members. This will boost the intraparty democracy.