The Transformational Democratic Coalition (TDC) now stands as the only legally recognized opposition coalition in Kenya, following the controversial merger of the country’s two other registered political coalitions.
According to official records, only three coalitions were duly registered under the Political Parties Act, 2012.
However, recent political realignments have thrown the status of two of these alliances into legal uncertainty.
In what analysts are calling a direct violation of Article 14 of the Political Parties Act, 2012, two of the three registered coalitions have formally merged, effectively dissolving themselves under the law.
The act stipulates that political parties and coalitions cannot merge or form alliances without triggering a legal review of their registration status. The merger, therefore, automatically nullifies the registration of both coalitions involved.
This development leaves TDC (Transformational Democratic Coalition) as the only legally existing coalition and, by extension, the legitimate voice of the opposition in Kenya.
“TDC occupies its rightful position as the only legal and true opposition coalition in Kenya,” said a statement from the coalition’s secretariat.
Added, “While others have contravened the law, TDC remains fully compliant and committed to upholding democratic principles.”
Observers note that this new status could significantly shift the country’s political dynamics, especially in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
TDC’s leadership is now expected to play a central role in articulating alternative policies, holding the government accountable, and providing a platform for dissenting voices across the political spectrum.
The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but legal experts anticipate a formal revocation of the merged coalitions’ registration in the coming weeks.
With Kenya’s political landscape rapidly evolving, TDC’s newfound position as the United Opposition’s standard-bearer could mark the beginning of a new era in Kenyan politics.
