Written By Lisa Murimi
Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has moved to calm fears over the Maisha Card, clarifying that the expiry of the card will not result in the loss of citizenship.
Cardholders will only need to renew the document, ensuring their citizenship remains intact.
Bitok also addressed concerns over the revised fees for acquiring the Maisha Card, which many Kenyans view as an unnecessary burden on a basic citizenship right.
He defended the fees, citing the high cost of producing the card due to its advanced features.
In an effort to engage the public, Bitok announced the launch of a public participation initiative to gather feedback on the proposed Maisha Card Regulations.
Starting next week, regional and county commissioners will facilitate forums to discuss the draft regulations for the Registration of Persons Amendment Rules 2024 and the Birth and Death Registration Amendment Rules 2024.
“Public participation is a cornerstone of our democracy,” Bitok stated, emphasizing that citizen input will be crucial in refining the regulations.
He also reassured Kenyans that the second-generation identity cards currently in use remain valid, and that registration for the digital Maisha Card will be voluntary.
The announcement follows public backlash that led to the government postponing mandatory registration for digital identity cards.
