Kenyan scholars, political representatives, and youth leaders are advocating for stronger political institutions, enhanced accountability, and people-centred governance, drawing lessons from China’s approach to building and managing its political system.
Speaking at a round-table discussion in Nairobi, participants explored China’s governance experience and its relevance to African nations. They highlighted that the Communist Party of China (CPC) offers valuable lessons in organisational discipline, anti-corruption efforts, and long-term development planning.
The discussion, titled “Putting the People First and Upholding Full, Rigorous Party Self-Governance: Lessons from the CPC’s Approach to Governance for African Countries,” provided a platform to examine how China’s governance philosophy could inform institutional development across the continent.
Patrick Maluki, Chair of the Foreign Service Academy and an Associate Professor at the University of Nairobi, noted that China’s governance model is shaped by its history, state-building process, and political context. He stressed that African countries must identify adaptable practices without compromising constitutional safeguards, political pluralism, and accountability.
“Organisational discipline, long-term planning, oversight, and anti-corruption are areas that deserve consideration. They should be pursued in ways that protect pluralism, participation, and accountability.”Maluki stated
He observed that neither political continuity nor competition alone guarantees development, referencing the varied political experiences of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
