IEBC clarifies voter registration rules, urges Kenyans to beat deadline

ROSE MUTHONI-KNA

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has clarified that Kenyans can register as voters in any part of the country, regardless of their physical location, as it intensifies efforts to boost turnout ahead of the April 28 deadline for the first phase of mass voter registration.

Speaking during a voter education forum in Kiambu Town, Senior Elections Officer Beatrice Saki Muli said prospective voters are not restricted to registering in the areas where they present themselves.

Instead, they are free to choose their preferred polling station anywhere in the country during registration.

“You can walk into a registration centre in Kiambu and still choose to vote in Kisii or any other county. What matters is indicating your preferred polling station at the point of registration,” Muli explained. 

The clarification follows concerns raised by voter registration officials over low turnout, partly attributed to misconceptions about the process.

A Voter Registration Assistant (VRA) from Riabai Ward noted that some residents remain hesitant despite assurances from IEBC staff.

“We have been informing residents that they can register and vote anywhere in the country, but some still doubt the process, fearing they may be forced to vote in locations they did not choose,” the VRA said. I

EBC officials say they are stepping up public awareness campaigns to address such misconceptions and encourage more citizens to register.