Zaheer Jhanda proposes changes to party-list nomination process

Nyaribari Chache Member of Parliament Zaheer Jhanda has suggested alterations to Kenya's party-list nomination procedure, advocating for political parties to present their nominees subsequent to the General Election. Jhanda argued that the proposed amendment would enable voters to ascertain the electoral outcome before parties nominate individuals for party-list seats in Parliament and county assemblies.

In a press release on September 22, 2026, Jhanda outlined his plan, stating that all party-list nominations should be finalized and the definitive names submitted following the General Election. "In essence, I am proposing a straightforward reform to the timing of party-list nominations for Members of Parliament, Senators, and County Assembly representatives," Jhanda remarked.

"To put it simply, all party-list nominations should occur after the General Election." Jhanda contended that the existing system obliges political parties to submit their party lists prior to the General Election. He advocated for a change that would permit parties to engage in the election first, followed by the submission of nominees for the allocated seats.

According to the MP, once the election results are announced and the number of party-list seats allocated to each political party is determined, the respective parties would then submit nominees for those positions. "This implies that political parties would partake in the General Election initially," Jhanda explained. "Upon the declaration of the election results and the establishment of the number of party-list seats assigned to each party, the respective parties would subsequently submit nominees for those seats in accordance with the Constitution and the law."

Jhanda referenced Article 90 of the Constitution, which governs the allocation of party-list seats in the National Assembly, Senate, and county assemblies. He contended that the legislative body has the authority to determine the timelines and procedures for the submission of party lists, suggesting that the current system should undergo review.

"The essence is uncomplicated: Let Kenyans vote first," Jhanda stated. "Allow the electoral outcome to dictate the allocation of seats. Then let the corresponding party-list nominations follow that outcome." The MP argued that his proposal would aim to link party-list nominations more closely to the results of the General Election while preserving constitutional safeguards.

He also emphasized that the proposed system should uphold transparency, fairness, and the principle of proportional representation. Jhanda suggested that the proposed system should be subjected to public and legislative debate prior to any modifications. "I contend that this is an important matter that warrants serious public and legislative discourse," he concluded.