ONE YEAR IN: PARTY FUNDING LEGISLATION NEEDS TO BE STRENGTHENED
1 June 2022
We applaud the Electoral Commission (IEC) for timeously publishing the 4th and final set of disclosures of the first financial year since the promulgation of the Political Party Funding Act (PPFA). The disclosures, thus far, have given us crucial insight into who funds and influences our politics. However, they have also laid bare loopholes in the legislation, which limit it from doing what it purports to do. As we approach the next phase of the legislation’s lifecycle, MVC will call for a strengthening of the party funding legislation.
The PPFA exists to enhance political transparency and the rights of voters and to limit the toxic relationship between money and politics. The past year has shown that it is, undoubtedly, one of the biggest improvements to our democracy since 1996.
The PPFA has been effective
Although only 2 political parties have disclosed receiving donations over the threshold in the period 1 January – 31 March 2022, the past year has shown the effectiveness of such legislation.