During every election period, you have witnessed how there is always a lot of money in circulation. During such a period that’s when the economy opens up for some reason right? Hospital bills get paid, small businesses start up, drought is no longer a topic of discussion, and small problems get solved quickly, sound familiar? 

At the beginning of last year, I had an education project that required a financial boost, so I approached a few politicians whom I had access to. They didn’t look at the proposals but they all had one response in common; we can’t help you right now simply because we are saving up for the campaigns. At that moment I didn’t understand a word they said but alas! Here we are now, I have been enlightened.

The Independent Electoral Boundary Commission (IEBC) has set spending limits for aspirants planning to contest for any political office next year. This has been guided by many factors including the geographical size and the population of each region. The guidelines proposed must also be approved by Parliament. 

We expect to have political parties spending 17.7 billion which is quite high whereas in 2017 the limit spent was 15 billion. Parties participating in 2022 elections are allowed to spend;

  • Transport 11 billion
  • Advertising 1.8 billion
  • Administrative cost 945 million
  • Poll agents 1.5 billion

For Kenya to hold a fair and credible general election in 2022, IEBC Chairman, Wafula Chebukati says the commission requires a bare minimum of 40.9 billion. Presidential positions spending is capped at  shs 4.4 billion. 

Running for Governor, Senator or Woman Representative seat the spending limits are;

  • Turkana 123 million
  • Nairobi 117 million
  • Marsabit 114 million
  • Lamu 21 million
  • Tharaka Nithi 23 million
  • Elgeyo Marakwet 25 million

Well, I want to go on listing and proudly say that we have reduced the limit in comparison to the 2017 elections probably due to COVID 19 affecting the economy, but still these numbers are seemingly outrageous. I stand with Mudavadi and agree that leadership in Kenya is a rich-only affair. Leadership in Kenya is evaluated by how much money you have.

I don’t know what makes me sadder, is it the fact that I hear people say politicians will never push the country’s agenda forward while in their first term because they are working towards getting back all the money they spent during the campaign season? Or is it that the elections are too expensive locking out young politicians?

Youths are unemployed/unempowered, hospitals lack funding, government projects stall due to lacking funds, some Kenyans sleep hungry, projects lack funds, children lack school fees. 2022 should be an eye opener, it’s not that Kenyan leaders don’t have money, it’s just that you are not a priority. It’s time for us voters to be a little selfish, in which economy will 500shs last you a day? Vote in good leadership. 

My take is; it’s not a them versus us affair, money should not be a qualification for any leadership. What has your MP, Woman Rep, or MCA done for you in their 5years/10years tenure? If you can’t account for anything that they have done then stop listening to their promises, vote for a set of new people. Remember to be wise and listen keenly to their manifestos, ask questions. Do not be a blind follower!!!

MaryMwas ❤❤❤