Communist Party of Kenya to hold 2nd national congress amid rising political tensions
The Communist Party of Kenya (CPK) will convene its 2nd National Congress this weekend, a critical event that is expected to reshape the political landscape in Kenya. Set for November 16th and 17th, the Congress comes at a pivotal moment marked by rising political repression, heightened class struggles, and escalating tensions between the ruling government and leftist forces.
The CPK aims to solidify its role as the vanguard of the working-class movement, despite increasing attacks and surveillance targeting its leadership and members.
The Congress is being convened under the guidance of Kinuthia Ndung’u, the Interim National Chairperson of the CPK Majority faction. This follows the successful conclusion of a rigorous rectification program aimed at reaffirming the Party’s ideological commitment to Marxism-Leninism. The majority faction, led by Ndung’u, has positioned itself in stark contrast to a minority faction led by Mwandawiro Mganga and Benedict Wachira, who have reportedly aligned themselves with the “reactionary regime” of President William Ruto.
“The betrayal by opportunistic factions has only strengthened our resolve,” said Booker Omole, the Convener of the Working Committee and National Vice Chairperson of the CPK. “The minority faction has chosen the path of collusion with imperialist-backed forces, but we remain committed to the principles of Marxism-Leninism and the revolutionary struggle for Kenya’s true independence.”
The two-day Congress will bring together 126 accredited delegates from all 47 counties in Kenya, alongside 54 representatives from international communist and workers’ organizations, totaling 180 participants. The primary agenda of the Congress will be to outline the next steps in Kenya’s National Democratic Revolution (NDR), aiming to dismantle what the Party views as a neo-colonial capitalist system.
“We will reaffirm our analysis that Kenya remains a capitalist and semi-feudal society, where the comprador ruling class serves imperialist interests,” stated Omole. “This Congress is a declaration of our intent to complete the country’s independence by dismantling the existing order and laying the foundation for socialism.”
Central to the Congress discussions will be the launch of the CPK’s ideological school, modeled after the historic Patrice Lumumba Institute founded by Pio Gama Pinto. This initiative is aimed at rebuilding the Party’s educational infrastructure, ensuring ideological unity, and instilling revolutionary discipline among its members.
“We are investing in our educational arm to provide a clear, unified understanding of Marxist-Leninist principles,” noted Kinuthia Ndung’u. “This Congress is not just a meeting; it is a process of ideological fortification.”
The Congress will also review the structures of key mass organizations affiliated with the Party, including the Revolutionary Women’s League, Young Communist League, and Young Pioneers. The aim is to deepen engagement with the masses and strengthen the Party’s base through the mass-line strategy, which emphasizes direct connection with the people’s struggles.
In a symbolic gesture of cultural renewal, the CPK will adopt the official Swahili translation of the Internationale and unveil a new album titled “CPK Songs of Struggle.” These cultural initiatives are expected to invigorate the revolutionary spirit and align the Party’s cultural outreach with its political objectives.
“The cultural aspect of our struggle is vital,” said Omole. “These songs and translations reflect our enduring commitment to the Kenyan people’s liberation and are a unifying force for our comrades.”
The 2nd National Congress also marks a decisive break from what the Party describes as “counter-revolutionary factions” within its own ranks. The event will emphasize the need for ideological clarity to defeat what the CPK has termed the “Gang of Two”—a reference to the minority faction leaders Mganga and Wachira, who have been accused of aligning with pro-imperialist elements.
“This Congress represents a rejection of opportunism and a call for unity through ideological clarity,” declared Ndung’u. “We are determined to confront these counter-revolutionary forces head-on.”
The Congress will discuss tactical approaches to navigating Kenya’s complex political landscape, including potential engagement with coalition politics and the formation of a popular front. However, the ultimate goal remains clear: seizing power for the working masses and leading the fight against imperialism.
“We are prepared to adapt our tactics as necessary, but our strategic vision remains unwavering,” said Omole. “We will lead the people’s struggle with the aim of building a socialist Kenya.”
The CPK’s Congress will also serve as a platform for building alliances with revolutionary movements across Africa and the world. Representatives from international communist and workers’ organizations will share their experiences and strategies, reinforcing a message of global solidarity against imperialism.
“We stand in solidarity with all revolutionary forces across the continent,” Omol added. “Our revolution is both immediate and enduring, fueled by the sacrifices and unwavering commitment of our comrades.”
As the 2nd National Congress convenes, all eyes are on the Communist Party of Kenya and its next moves in the country’s volatile political arena. The event promises to be more than a gathering of like-minded ideologues; it is poised to be a critical step in the CPK’s broader strategy to challenge the current regime and steer Kenya toward what it calls a truly free and socialist future.
The political landscape in Kenya may be on the verge of a significant shift, as the CPK reaffirms its revolutionary mission and declares its readiness to confront the forces of imperialism and reaction.
