The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced plans to deploy four voter registration kits per constituency ahead of the continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise starting today.

IEBC Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana explained that the move aims to ensure a smooth and inclusive registration process for all eligible voters.

Voter registration strategy

Speaking on a local TV station on September 29, 2025, Mukhwana said, “We are putting four kits in every constituency, two to avoid congestion, ensure that if there is any upsurge of people wanting to register, we should not have complaints of long queues. Another two are open kits to allow you to vote in a different location, but for your home constituency. This will help those who cannot travel to their home constituencies to register.”

The approach, he said, is designed to address logistical challenges and enhance accessibility, particularly for young and first-time voters.

Youth engagement and eligibility

Mukhwana highlighted the focus on youth participation, noting that 70 per cent of expected voters are young people. “If you don’t do things geared towards encouraging them to vote, then you will lose it,” he said.

He also outlined eligibility criteria, adding, “Not every Kenyan who is 18 will be eligible to vote; there are several issues considered, including that one should have a passport or identity card.”

On historical challenges, Mukhwana acknowledged trust issues facing the IEBC, stating, “The issue of trust is historical and cannot be attributed to this commission alone,” while emphasising the commission’s constitutional mandate under Article 123 to execute the will of the people.

Collaboration with leaders

The announcement comes amid calls for stronger cooperation between the IEBC and political parties.

Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, during a meeting with the Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) on September 27, stressed the shared responsibility to protect the will of Kenyans through credible and inclusive elections.

The IEBC’s efforts are supported by civic leaders, including former Chief Justice David Maraga, who urged massive voter turnout, and activist Okiya Omtatah, who highlighted the significance of registration in shaping the nation’s future.

The CVR exercise aims to register an additional 6.3 million voters, with a focus on accessibility, transparency, and rebuilding public trust in the electoral process.