The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has confirmed that it will announce the official voter registration schedule for the upcoming 2027 General Election in August 2025.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday, July 19, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon stated that the commission is currently finalising internal processes and will soon issue a gazette notice outlining the nationwide voter registration timeline.
This announcement aims to address rising public concerns as the country prepares for the crucial elections.
“We are in the final stages of completing our internal groundwork,” Ethekon said. “In August, we will formally publish the dates for the resumption of continuous voter registration, which will give all eligible Kenyans the opportunity to register.”
Ethekon encouraged all Kenyans to actively participate in the registration process once it opens, stressing the importance of civic responsibility in strengthening democracy. He also assured the public that the Commission will provide regular updates to all stakeholders to ensure transparency and inclusivity throughout the process.
Voter Statistics and Registration Targets
According to IEBC data, a total of 22,120,458 voters were registered by the time of the 2022 General Election. The Commission now aims to grow this number significantly.
In a previous appearance before a National Assembly Committee on February 25, IEBC Deputy CEO Obadiah Keitany revealed that the Commission intends to register an additional 5.7 million new voters, bringing the projected total to over 28 million registered voters.
What Led to the Delay?
Chairperson Ethekon explained that the delay in launching the voter registration exercise was mainly caused by the failure to reconstitute the Commission after the term of the previous team expired. Despite these challenges, he reassured Kenyans that the Commission is committed to fulfilling its mandate within the available time.
“Although we are working with a tight schedule, we remain focused and determined to carry out the voter registration exercise with urgency and diligence,” he affirmed.
How to Register as a Voter
To become a registered voter in Kenya, a person must:
- Be a Kenyan citizen
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid National ID card or a Kenyan passport
Eligible individuals must register in person at official IEBC registration centres. These include:
- IEBC constituency or county offices
- Temporary registration centres set up during mass registration drives
- Huduma Centres
- Designated Kenyan embassies or consulates abroad (for diaspora voters)
At the centre, registrants’ information is collected using a Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) kit. This includes:
- Full name
- ID or passport number
- Personal demographic details
- Digital photo
- Fingerprints
After verification, the applicant receives an acknowledgement slip confirming their registration and assigned polling station.
Verification of Voter Details
Once the registration process is completed, the IEBC compiles a provisional voter register, which is then made accessible to the public for inspection. During this period, registered voters can:
- Check their details through SMS, online portals, or physical centres
- Request corrections if there are any errors
- Raise objections regarding questionable entries
This process is crucial for cleaning up the register and ensuring its accuracy and credibility before the final voter list is certified and used in the elections.
Update on Electoral Boundaries
Ethekon also spoke about the long-standing issue of boundary delimitation—the process of redrawing electoral borders.
He mentioned that the IEBC is currently waiting for guidance from the Supreme Court to determine how to proceed, as the legal deadline for boundary review has already passed. The commission is keen to ensure that any action taken aligns with constitutional and legal requirements.
In conclusion, the IEBC is moving forward with plans for the 2027 General Election, starting with voter registration. The Commission is urging all Kenyans to be ready to register once the official dates are announced and has committed to keeping the public informed every step of the way.
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