ORPP Denies Claims That Wiper Party Is Being Dissolved

The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) has rubbished viral reports alleging that Kalonzo Musyoka's Wiper Democratic Movement party has initiated a dissolution.

This is after a fake letter went viral on social media platforms purporting that the opposition party had initiated self-dissolution and that the decision had been forwarded to ORPP for approval.

The document claimed that thedissolution was a resolution by Wiper’s National Executive Committeeto dissolve the party led by its Secretary General, Shakila Abdalla.

However, ORPP distanced itself from allegations purporting that it had approved the letter, clarifying that the document was not authentic, with the registrar flagging the document as fake.

In a brief statement on Thursday, January 15, the registrar cautioned Kenyans against falling for the misleading information contained in the said document, further urging members of the public to seek accurate information.

The ORPP further reiterated that any official communication regarding the registration, deregistration or dissolution of a political party must strictly follow the procedures outlined under the law.

"Be advised of misleading information in the letters therein. All are guided to seek accurate information through  ORPPKenya official communication channels or at ORPP offices," the Registrar said.

"The official information obtained should be used responsibly, including circulation in line with the relevant legal provisions and ORPP access to information procedures," the statement added.

As far as party dissolution of a party is concerned, the ORPP has the powers to deregister a party under certain conditions.

For instance, of a party fails to comply with the Political Parties Act or its own constitution, the ORPP could be compelled to initiate the dissolution process.

A party also runs the risk of getting dissolved for not participating in elections for a set period.

The latest development comes amid calls by some pro-government politicians for Kalonzo to fold up his party and join President William Ruto's camp ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Nonetheless,Kalonzo has repeatedly ruled out any plans of joining the Kenya Kwanza government, with the Wiper leader insisting on remaining in the opposition.

To further quell rumours of joining Ruto's camp, the Wiper leader in October last year officially announced his ambition to run for the 2027 presidential election, with the latter aiming to make Ruto a one-term president.

Kalonzo's decision to announce his presidential bid has since triggered criticism from the goverbment with Ruto challenging him to account for his 40-year tenure in government before vying for the presidency.