Legislating political funding safeguards democracy

RECENTLY there has been growing discourse on the need to regulate political funding and I stand firmly among its proponents. Indeed, there is a ­compelling rationale to legislate and oversee these activities, particularly in light of public perception that political funders often expect returns – such as preferential access to government contracts – which can ultimately lead to bribery and corruption.

Political party funding refers to the methods used by parties to raise money for campaign activities. These funds typically cover expenses such as transportation, professional consultancy, advertising, billboards and other voter outreach strategies.