Over 400,000 IDs uncollected as Gov't decries low voter registration turnout

The government has disclosed that more than 400,000 national identification cards remain uncollected across the country, even as officials ramp up efforts to ensure that applicants receive their documents amid a low voter registration turnout.

Speaking during a tree planting exercise to mark Mazingira Day in Kapseret on Friday, Immigration Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang urged Kenyans who have already applied for their IDs to collect them without further delay.

“We are calling upon all applicants to collect their IDs as soon as possible so they can also register as voters,” said Kipsang.

The PS noted that for individuals unable to collect their IDs in person, the government will collaborate with chiefs and other administrative officers to facilitate the delivery of the documents to the rightful owners.

Kipsang further raised concerns over the low number of new ID applications, especially in arid and semi-arid regions, despite the removal of vetting committees in border communities a move aimed at making the registration process easier.

He also highlighted that elderly citizens remain underrepresented in ID applications, urging them to take advantage of the presidential directive allowing free application and collection of identification cards.

“We have made it as easy as possible. We urge every eligible citizen to acquire their ID and register as a voter,” he emphasized.

The government has assured the public that all necessary measures are in place to ensure the ongoing voter registration exercise runs smoothly and efficiently, ahead of the upcoming electoral processes.