NAIROBI, Kenya Apr 4 – The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has clarified that Kenyans who registered as voters before 2012 must register afresh to be included in the current biometric voter register.
The announcement comes as the Commission revealed that over 344,000 new voters have already been registered just days after the rollout of the Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration (ECVR) exercise.
In its latest update, IEBC said 344,316 new voters had been added to the register as of April 2, alongside 18,610 transfers and 329 updates of personal details.
“Individuals who had previously enrolled as voters before 2012 are not part of the current biometric register unless they registered afresh,” the Commission stated.
The ongoing mass registration exercise, which began on March 30, will run for 30 days and is seen as a key step in preparing for the 2027 General Election.
“This nationwide mass registration drive is a critical milestone as we prepare for the 2027 General Elections,” IEBC said.
The Commission is targeting to register 2.5 million new voters during the exercise, which is being conducted across all 1,450 wards, Huduma Centres, institutions of higher learning, and constituency offices.
IEBC has urged Kenyans to take advantage of the Easter holiday period to register, warning that there will be no extension beyond the April 28 deadline.
“Only 25 days remain… there will be no extension. The time to register is now,” the Commission emphasized.
The electoral body also addressed concerns about voter registration and transfers, saying citizens do not need to travel to their home counties.
“You do not need to travel to your home county. You can register from any centre and choose your preferred polling station,” IEBC said.
On transfers, IEBC insisted the process must be done physically at constituency offices, with biometric verification required.
“This process ensures proper verification and helps eliminate unlawful mass voter transfers not authorized by voters,” the statement added.
The Commission is now calling on eligible Kenyans especially young people and first-time voters to turn up in large numbers and register.
“Participation in voter registration is a fundamental civic responsibility… Together, let us strengthen our democracy,” IEBC said.
With the deadline fast approaching, IEBC warned against last-minute rush, urging citizens to register early to avoid delays.
