By Eddah Waithaka
Members of the Civic Freedoms Forum and prominent leaders of national civil society organisations (CSOs) met today to strategize on the implementation of the Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Act 2013, which officially came into force yesterday, marking a significant milestone for the sector.
The new law, whose implementation had been frozen for 11 years, provides a comprehensive, consolidated, predictable and transparent framework for the registration and regulation of civil society organisations operating in Kenya.
The joint meeting aimed to develop a comprehensive action plan that will guide the partnership between CSOs and government in advancing key components of the legislation for sustainable progress and civic engagement.
During their press briefing, the group mentioned that their journey to this milestone was not easy, as it took 11 years and 4 months of relentless struggle and effort.
Also Read:https://switchmedianews.wordpress.com/2024/05/14/homabay-county-land-lease-granted-for-cpf-groups-new-headquarters-development/
“This is an important step forward and demonstrates the commitment of the current regime and civil society to a future of an enabling environment and a broadened democratic space, and civil
society to a future of an enabling environment and expanded democratic space in Kenya, ” said one of the representative.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, said that an inclusive, participatory and open society is good for Kenya.
The Cs noted that it fortifies our democratic credentials and buttresses our values for transparent governance
“Gratified to see the fulfilment of yet another of the Kenya Kwanza Administration’s pre-election manifesto pledges; namely, the promotion of inclusive and participatory governance, fostering accountability and welcoming alternative or even critical viewpoints” CS Kindiki added.
“Commencing the PBO Act is an important step forward and demonstrates the commitment of current regime and civic society to a future of an enabling environment and broadened democratic space in Kenya,” said Davis Malombe.
“As we celebrate this achievement, we recognize that the hard work is just beginning. With the PBO Act
the Non-Governmental Organisations Co-ordination Act, 1990, is now repealed,” the statement said.
Additionally, it is crucial to facilitate a seamless transfer of resources and responsibilities during this transition phase. Adequate support mechanisms should be put in place to ensure that the automatic transition of all CSOs registered under the repealed law occurs smoothly.
The group also mentioned the need to establish clear guidelines for the transition from the NGO Coordination Board to the PBO Regulatory Authority and from the NGO Council to the Federation of PBOs.
The development and adoption of regulations under Section 69 of the Act will be critical in providing a structured framework for the operation of these entities within the new regulatory landscape.
The establishment of a PBOs Disputes Tribunal will also be essential in resolving any conflicts or issues that may arise during this transitional period, ultimately ensuring a transparent and fair process for all parties involved.
In conclusion, the Civil Society Federation (CFF) urges the Government, in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations, to take decisive actions for the smooth transition and empowerment of Public Benefit Organizations (PBOs).
These include the formation of a joint oversight committee, the extension of the term of the current Executive Director of the NGO Coordination Board, public education on the 2013 PBO Law, assessing the legitimacy of the ‘NGO Council’, reviewing key policies, establishing self-regulatory forums and drafting PBO regulations.
