The President of Kenya raised a bill to regulate harambees in Kenya which aims to improve transparency and reduce corruption. It bans political aspirants from fundraising three years before elections. It also prohibits state officers from holding harambees during their tenure. The bill requires fundraisers to disclose financial records to ensure accountability.
However ,the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill, 2024, faced widespread opposition in the Senate. Critics said it undermines the spirit of harambees, essential for community support. Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa and Kirinyaga Senator James Murango opposed the bill. They argued it restricts voluntary and culturally important practices. Elgeyo-Marakwet Senator William Kisang demanded free education before limiting harambees.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot defended the bill. He said it seeks to regulate, not ban, harambees to reduce money’s influence in politics. However, senators like Wajir’s Abass Mohamed and Nominated Senator Beatrice Ogola emphasized the importance of harambees in helping communities. They told the government to fight corruption instead of regulating fundraisers. The strong resistance has cast doubt on the bill’s future.
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