The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is set to roll out a nationwide voter registration exercise on Monday, September 29, targeting over 6.3 million new voters ahead of the November 27 by-elections and the August 2027 General Elections.
The Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will begin in all 290 constituencies and later extend to wards, as part of a comprehensive effort to expand voter participation. IEBC Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana, speaking during a TV interview, confirmed that the commission has introduced a raft of changes to make the registration process faster, more transparent, and free from duplication errors.
Among the reforms is the introduction of automatic data capture, where personal details will be scanned directly from applicants’ ID cards into the registration kit. This reduces the risk of errors caused by manual entry. Additionally, the commission will, for the first time, collect iris data alongside fingerprints and passport photos, further enhancing accuracy and security of the voter register.
The registration process will be straightforward and is expected to take no more than 10 minutes. Applicants will hand over their ID to an IEBC officer, who will scan it to confirm registration status. If not already registered, their details, including ID number, date of birth, and gender, will be automatically captured. Information on literacy levels and any disabilities requiring assistance will also be recorded before biometric identifiers are taken.
To improve accessibility, IEBC has expanded its infrastructure by deploying four registration kits per constituency. One will specifically cater to voters registering away from their intended polling stations, allowing, for instance, Nairobi-based workers to register in the city but vote in their home counties. Registration will also be available in Huduma Centres nationwide within a week of the launch.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon is expected to unveil additional voter-friendly innovations designed to attract young, tech-savvy Kenyans, particularly Gen Z.
The commission’s ultimate goal is to ensure inclusivity and efficiency, urging all eligible citizens to take advantage of the exercise and register to vote.
