By Josphine Kasimu
Kitui County is grappling with low voter registration numbers as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) enters the third day of its 30-day nationwide mass voter registration exercise.
The commission has set an ambitious target of registering 60,000 new voters in the county during this period, but progress remains slow due to a range of persistent challenges.
Since the exercise commenced on 29 September 2025, several counties across the country have reported obstacles, including intermittent machine failures, difficult-to-reach areas and, most notably, low uptake of National Identification (ID) cards among eligible citizens.
The lack of IDs—an essential requirement for voter registration—has emerged as a significant barrier, particularly in rural areas.
In Kitui County, the situation is especially pronounced. Despite ongoing efforts, only about 10,000 voters have been registered since the exercise began, a figure far below expectations.
IEBC officials attribute this shortfall largely to the high number of adults who have yet to apply for or obtain National Identification cards.
Speaking during the exercise in Kitui Central Constituency, County Elections Manager Dr. Macharia Gichichi noted that while the commission has made logistical improvements, the issue of low ID registration continues to undermine progress.
He explained that IEBC registration services are readily available at its offices across the county, but many eligible residents are unable to take part due to the lack of proper identification.
Dr. Gichichi acknowledged that earlier technical challenges, such as machine breakdowns, had affected the process but assured residents that these issues have since been resolved.
“Previously, we experienced occasional machine failures, but with ongoing technological upgrades, our systems are now running smoothly,” he said.
“Each ward is equipped with three machines and adequate personnel to ensure efficient service delivery.”
Despite the improved infrastructure, the commission faces an uphill task in meeting its registration target.
Dr. Gichichi has called on leaders and stakeholders at all levels to support the exercise by mobilising residents to register as voters. He emphasised that while the process is overseen by the IEBC, its success depends heavily on public participation.
“This is a national exercise meant to empower citizens to take part in democratic processes,” he said. “We are appealing to political leaders, members of county assemblies, religious leaders and other stakeholders to work together in encouraging eligible residents to register.”
He also issued a special appeal to young people, particularly Generation Z, urging them to turn out in large numbers and take advantage of the registration window.
According to Dr. Gichichi, increased youth participation is critical not only in meeting the county’s target but also in strengthening democratic representation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
As the registration exercise continues, the spotlight remains on both national and county authorities to address systemic barriers—especially access to identification documents—to ensure that no eligible voter is left behind.
