Authorities have revealed that hundreds of thousands of national identification cards are still waiting to be collected nationwide, a development that coincides with a slow voter registration turnout. Officials are now intensifying efforts to ensure applicants receive their documents in time for upcoming elections.
During a tree planting ceremony in Kapseret to mark Mazingira Day on Friday, Immigration Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang urged citizens to promptly collect their IDs.
“We are calling upon all applicants to collect their IDs as soon as possible so they can also register as voters,” Kipsang said.
He explained that for those who cannot pick up their IDs personally, the government will coordinate with local chiefs and administrative officers to ensure the documents reach the rightful owners.
Kipsang highlighted that the number of new ID applications remains low, particularly in arid and semi-arid counties, even after vetting committees were removed in border areas to simplify registration.
He further noted that older citizens are underrepresented in applications and encouraged them to take advantage of the presidential directive that allows free application and collection of IDs.
“We have made it as easy as possible. We urge every eligible citizen to acquire their ID and register as a voter,” he added.
The government reassured the public that all measures are in place to facilitate an efficient and smooth voter registration process ahead of the next elections.