How to Resign from a Political Party in Kenya

In Kenya, political party membership is regulated by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP). Whether you’re switching parties or stepping away from politics altogether, you must officially resign from your current party before joining another. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to resign from a political party fast, legally, and correctly.

Steps on How to Resign from a Political Party in Kenya

Step 1: Understand the Legal Requirement

The Political Parties Act in Kenya prohibits dual-party membership. To join a new political party, you must first resign from your current one. The process is now fully digitized via the *509# USSD service provided by ORPP.

Resignation is a personal right, and once the correct process is followed, no party can block or delay your exit.

Step 2: Check Your Current Party Status

Before resigning, verify your current registration using the ORPP USSD tool:

• Dial *509#
• Enter your ID number
• The system will show your current political party

This step helps confirm your existing membership before initiating the resignation.

Step 3: Resign via *509# USSD Code

To resign from a political party in Kenya:

• Dial *509# on your mobile phone
• Enter your ORPP PIN (you can register for one if you’re a first-time user — see below)
• Select “Membership”
• Choose “Resign from party”
• Confirm your identity and current party details
• Finalize the resignation by confirming the action

You’ll receive an SMS confirming your successful resignation from the political party.

Step 4: First-Time Users – How to Register for ORPP USSD

If you’ve never used the *509# platform before, here’s how to register:

• Dial *509#
• Select “Register.”
• Enter your ID number and first name
• Confirm your details
• You’ll receive an ORPP PIN via SMS

This PIN allows you to log in and complete membership-related tasks, including resignation and joining another party.

Step 5: Resign via the ORPP Online Portal

You can also resign through the ORPP e-citizen-integrated portal:

1. Visit https://www.orpp.or.ke
2. Log in using your ID credentials
3. Navigate to the Political Party Membership section
4. Select your registered party and click “Resign.”
5. Resign and download the acknowledgment receipt

This method is convenient if you prefer a digital paper trail.

Step 6: Manual Resignation by Visiting ORPP Offices

If you’re not comfortable using digital tools, you can resign manually by visiting any ORPP office:

1. Write a formal resignation letter addressed to:
   The Registrar of Political Parties
2. Include your full name, ID or passport number, and details of the party you’re leaving
3. Attach a copy of your national ID or passport
4. Submit it in person at an ORPP regional or head office

The Registrar will verify your membership and process the request within the timelines outlined in the ORPP service charter.

What Happens After Resignation?

Once you’ve successfully resigned:

• Your name will be removed from the previous party’s register
• You are now free to join another political party of your choice
• Your resignation will be logged and tracked by ORPP

Resigning does not affect your voting rights or citizenship. It only updates your political affiliation in the national records.

Conclusion on How to Resign from a Political Party in Kenya

Resigning from a political party in Kenya is straightforward, thanks to ORPP’s *509# mobile service. Whether joining a new party like the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) or stepping back from active politics, always ensure you complete the process legally to avoid disqualification in future elections or disputes over dual membership.

Take control of your political journey. The power is literally in your hands.

FAQs

Is it mandatory to resign before joining another party?

Yes. The law requires you to resign before registering with a new party.

Is there a fee for resignation?

No. The process is free via the *509# USSD platform.

How long does it take for the resignation to reflect?

It is usually updated instantly, and a confirmation SMS is sent.

Can I resign multiple times?

Yes, but you can only belong to one political party at a time.