Wajackoyah vows to make voter registration compulsory if elected president
By Kiprono Keileb, January 13, 2026Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah has unveiled plans to make voter registration mandatory alongside the issuance of government identification and driving licenses.
In a statement made during an interview with K24 Television on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Wajackoyah said the measure would streamline registration, curb misuse of special budgets, and ensure all eligible citizens participate in elections. Wajackoyah explained how quickly he would act if elected president.
“This is what I will do if I become the president in the first year; I will make voter registration compulsory,” he said.
He clarified that the legislation he intends to push through Parliament would link voter registration directly to the issuance of IDs and driving licenses.
“I will make sure that legislation is passed that if you reach the age of maturity, before you get your ID or driving license, you must also apply to register as a voter. But if you get your ID or driving license, they cannot be functional unless you register as a voter,” Wajackoyah said.
The Roots party’s leader said the reforms would prevent misuse of government funds meant for voter registration.
“This will drive away the issue of special budgets, which will be stolen through IEBC in the name of voter registration,” he added.
Diaspora community
He also addressed Kenyans living abroad, noting the challenges they face with registration, and said he intends to make it compulsory for anyone applying for a passport to register as a voter.
“Look at the diaspora, for example; we will also make it compulsory that before you even travel or you are issued a passport to travel outside the country, you must register first,” Wajackoyah said.
Wajackoyah further outlined plans to reform registration systems for safety and accessibility.
“We shall also reform the registration systems to have registrations through embassies and designated safe environments,” he said.
Wajackoyah said that he will push all his proposals through Parliament for legislative approval during his first year in office.