The Commission is currently taking part in the development of the initial State Report on the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance. The Commission is a member of the inter-agency group spearheaded by the Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice.
The African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance was adopted in 2007 by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union as a framework for promoting democracy, good governance and the rule of law across the continent.
The Charter establishes continental norms and standards aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, upholding human rights, and fostering socio-economic development. It officially came into force on 15th February, 2012.
Kenya, ratified the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance on 30th January 2021 and is therefore, expected to submit its initial state report in accordance with Artcile 49 of the Charter. The Charter establishes key principles such as holding of free and fair elections, respect for the rule of law, democracy, separation of powers, and the promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
In its inaugural meeting held at Machakos from 28th April to 2nd May, 2025, the institutions represented in the inter-agency working group made presentations on how they have implemented the provisions of the ACDEG. The Commission was represented by Ms. Ruth Makuthu, the Ag. Manager Legal Reforms, Political Parties and Campaign Financing who made a detailed presentation on how the Commission has implemented matters relating to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, democratic elections and democratic institutions.
These presentations will inform the State Report that will outline Kenya’s progress in implementing the principles and commitments under ACDEG. Currently, the respective institutions are compiling the presentations in matrix format to aid in the development of the State report and the same will be shared with the respective institutions once completed and adopted.