PSC Calls for Applications for Registrar and Assistant Registrar of Political Parties Positions
The Public Service Commission (PSC) of Kenya has officially announced two prestigious vacancies in the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties, inviting qualified Kenyans to apply for the roles of Registrar of Political Parties and Assistant Registrar of Political Parties under the provisions of the Political Parties Act, Cap 7D.
This move marks a critical step in strengthening Kenya’s political infrastructure, ensuring compliance with the law, and enhancing accountability within the country’s multi-party democratic system. The announcement, which was made on the PSC’s official website and through a public notice dated July 2025, details the qualifications, functions, and application procedures for the positions.
Registrar of Political Parties – One (1) Post
Requirements for Appointment
To be appointed as the Registrar of Political Parties, a candidate must:
- Hold a degree from a university recognised in Kenya;
- Possess knowledge and experience in at least one of the following fields:
- Finance;
- Management;
- Political science;
- Law;
- Governance; or
- Public Administration;
- Have at least fifteen (15) years of post-qualification experience in a relevant area of expertise;
- Demonstrate high moral character, integrity, and adherence to the leadership and integrity provisions under Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.
Core Functions of the Registrar
The appointed Registrar will undertake the following critical duties as per the Political Parties Act:
- Register, regulate, monitor, and supervise political parties to ensure adherence to the law;
- Administer the Political Parties Fund;
- Oversee the publication of audited annual accounts of political parties;
- Verify and publish the full list of members of political parties;
- Maintain accurate and updated registers of political party members;
- Ensure no one is a member of more than one political party;
- Work with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to verify that independent candidates are not affiliated with any registered political party;
- Ensure that symbols used by independent candidates in elections do not resemble those of registered parties;
- Certify party nominee names to match membership rolls;
- Guide parties in nomination compliance with the Political Parties Act;
- Investigate complaints and disputes within political parties;
- Carry out any other lawful duties as required by legislation or directives.
Assistant Registrar of Political Parties – One (1) Post
Requirements for Appointment
To qualify for the position of Assistant Registrar of Political Parties, a candidate must:
- Hold a degree from a university recognised in Kenya;
- Possess knowledge and experience in one of the following fields:
- Finance;
- Management;
- Political Science;
- Law;
- Governance; or
- Public Administration;
- Have at least ten (10) years of post-qualification experience in a relevant area;
- Demonstrate integrity and leadership as stipulated under Chapter Six of the Constitution.
Role of the Assistant Registrar
The Assistant Registrar will be expected to support the Registrar in all operational, regulatory, and supervisory functions of the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.
Disqualification Criteria
The PSC disqualifies any person who:
- Has served or is serving as a Member of Parliament, a Member of a County Assembly, or on the governing body of any political party.
This clause is intended to preserve neutrality and prevent conflict of interest in the regulation and oversight of political entities in Kenya.
Appointment Term and Conditions
Both the Registrar and Assistant Registrar will serve for a non-renewable term of six (6) years. In addition, both roles are State Office positions as defined under Article 260 of the Constitution.
Salary and remuneration will be determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). The PSC has not disclosed specific salary amounts, but such high-ranking public positions are generally well-remunerated, with numerous benefits and allowances.
Commitment to Inclusivity
The Public Service Commission reiterated its commitment to inclusivity, emphasizing that women, youth, persons with disabilities, and marginalised groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
This aligns with Kenya’s constitutional values of equity, non-discrimination, and inclusiveness in public service appointments.
Mode of Application and Deadline
Applicants may choose from two application methods:
1. Hand Delivery
Applicants can submit their application marked “Application for Registrar of Political Parties” or “Application for Assistant Registrar of Political Parties” to:
Office of the Secretary/CEO
Public Service Commission
Commission House, 4th Floor
Harambee Avenue, Nairobi
2. Online Application
Alternatively, applications can be emailed to:
📧 registrarp2025@publicservice.go.ke
All applications must be received by Monday, 05 August 2025, no later than 5.00 p.m. (EAT).
Required Application Documents
Applicants must provide:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV);
- Certified copies of ID or Passport;
- Certified academic and professional certificates;
- Relevant testimonials;
- A National Identity Card;
- Valid clearance certificates from:
- Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA);
- Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC);
- Higher Education Loans Board (HELB);
- Registered Credit Reference Bureaus (CRBs);
- Directorate of Criminal Investigations (Police Clearance Certificate);
- A letter of recognition from the Commission for University Education (CUE) if the degree is from a foreign institution;
- Professional body recommendations, if applicable.
Importantly, the PSC states that it is a criminal offence to present fake academic documents, and candidates who fail to submit all required documents will not be considered.
Interview and Selection Process
The PSC emphasizes that shortlisted candidates will be required to present original copies of all documents at the interview. The selection process will be merit-based, and no fees are charged at any stage of the application or recruitment.
Applicants are warned against falling prey to fraudsters posing as recruitment agents, as the PSC does not engage any third-party agents in the hiring process.
Why This Recruitment Matters
The Registrar of Political Parties plays a pivotal role in ensuring political accountability and democracy in Kenya. As Kenya continues to navigate a dynamic multi-party political environment, this role becomes even more critical.
Proper management of political party registers, fair distribution of the Political Parties Fund, and prevention of party membership manipulation are essential components of a functioning democracy.
This recruitment also comes ahead of anticipated electoral reforms and the 2027 General Election, making the Registrar and Assistant Registrar roles strategic in shaping the political landscape.
Summary: Key Highlights
| Position | Minimum Experience | Application Deadline | Mode of Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registrar of Political Parties | 15 years | 5 August 2025 | Email/Hand Delivery |
| Assistant Registrar | 10 years | 5 August 2025 | Email/Hand Delivery |
Final Thoughts
The Public Service Commission’s invitation to fill the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties offers a rare and prestigious opportunity to influence Kenya’s political systems at a fundamental level. By appointing experienced professionals of high moral standing, the PSC aims to uphold the integrity of Kenya’s political institutions and promote a transparent, fair, and accountable political culture.
Interested applicants are urged to ensure that they submit complete and verified applications on time and avoid misinformation or submission of fraudulent documents.
