The Political Parties Act, 2000 enjoins political parties to within six months from 31 December of each year, a political party shall furnish their statement of accounts to the Electoral Commission. The Act is however silent on declarations on funds raised by or contributions made to a flagbearer of a political party. The law also does not require parties to name which individuals or businesses made donations neither does it set a limit on how much contributions can be made. There is increased perception among the polity that faceless financiers are controlling internal party processes by virtue of their funding. Foreign Funding of Political Parties Foreign funding is allowed under the Political Parties Act, 2000. However, only governments and international NGOs are allowed to contribute to party funds indirectly through the Electoral Commission. Foreign individuals or corporations are barred from doing so. 2.3.3 Continuous voter registration The Electoral Commission is developing the Area Network infrastructure to be able to undertake continuous voter registration. Inter-Party Advisory Committee The establishment of the IPAC has helped to improve inter-party dialogue in the country and afford political parties the opportunity to assist in democratic consolidation. Two key institutions drive these dialogues. Firstly, there is the General Secretaries forum which comprise the general secretaries of the political parties with representation in Parliament. The secretaries are supported by policy analysts appointed for the purpose of the dialogues. Secondly, there is the Chairmen’s Caucus which brings together Chairmen of the four large parties. The dialogue has resulted in the following: 1. Parliamentary Candidates Debate 2. Presidential Debates 3. Political Party Broadcasts 4. Political Parties Code of Conduct The Electoral Commission is deepening this dialogue with the establishment of district IPACs. Sixth Annual APRM Progress Report: January – December 2011 9