Tharaka nithi: The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has initiated the continuous voter registration exercise in Tharaka Nithi County, in alignment with a national effort to register over 6.3 million new voters ahead of the 2027 General Elections. Speaking from his office in Chuka, County IEBC Coordinator Mohamed Raka expressed satisfaction with the rollout, despite encountering a low turnout on the opening day.
According to Kenya News Agency, Raka highlighted that the day marked the beginning of physical registration activities across the county. He noted that while the initial turnout was low, it was anticipated, and expressed optimism for gradual improvement. Raka urged all eligible Kenyans, especially youths who have recently obtained national identity cards, to visit registration centers and enlist as voters.
Raka stated that the focus is on individuals who have acquired new ID cards but have not yet registered. In Tharaka Nithi alone, 6,613 people have been identified in this category. He emphasized that the exercise is not solely for first-time voters but also facilitates the transfer of polling stations and the correction of personal details for those with errors in the current voter register.
"This is a comprehensive exercise. We are assisting citizens with transfers, corrections, and new registrations," Raka said. He also encouraged early participation to prevent last-minute congestion at registration centers, stressing that while the exercise is continuous, early registration ensures that details are captured accurately.
The launch comes on the heels of recent government reforms aimed at improving access to national ID cards, a prerequisite for voter registration. Key changes by the Kenya Kwanza regime include the abolition of the Sh300 application fee for first-time applicants and the removal of additional vetting procedures in certain border regions. This policy shift is designed to facilitate easier participation for young people and first-time voters in the country's democratic processes.