Voter Registration Drive Resumes Ahead of 2027 Polls
The IEBC has maintained that the CVR exercise is not just a legal obligation but a civic duty, reminding Kenyans that the ideal form of democracy
Kenyan eligible but unregistered voters will have a new opportunity to register and registered citizens will be given an opportunity to update or amend their details. Photo /Courtesy
By Juliet Jerotich
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has now announced resumption of Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in a critical exercise aimed at having a current and credible voters’ roll ahead of the 2027 general election. The exercise is set to officially kick off on Monday, September 29, with the launch ceremony to be conducted at Mashuuru Primary School in Kajiado East Constituency.
By the CVR, Kenyan eligible but unregistered voters will have a new opportunity to register, and registered citizens will be given an opportunity to update or amend their details. The process will be undertaken in all constituency centers across the country, except in those areas preparing for by-elections, said the IEBC.
IEBC chairman Erastus Edung Ethekon noted the importance of the biometric registration program, noting that the register is the backbone of free, fair, and inclusive electoral processes. “This exercise is intended to give a chance to every Kenyan of voting age to make a contribution towards the future of our nation. It specifically targets young people who have reached the age of 18 years and are being enrolled onto the electoral register for the very first time, as well as those whose details require updating or transfer,” he explained.
Some of the services provided are new registration of voters, correction or modification of voter data, shift of voting precinct to another electoral district, and verification of voter data.
The Opposition has also rallied behind the exercise, urging citizens to seize the moment. At a church gathering in the Jesus Exaltation Centre in Kajiado County, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa urged youths to take the registration seriously, as their numbers would greatly influence the political future of the country in 2027.
Who is eligible to register?
Any citizen of Kenya who is 18 years old and above.
Those with a valid Kenyan passport or national ID card.
First-time voters with no previous registration.
Individuals not convicted of an electoral crime in the last five years.
Citizens who are not found legally to be of unsound mind.
The IEBC has maintained that the CVR exercise is not just a legal obligation but a civic duty, reminding Kenyans that the ideal form of democracy is one in which all participate. Early citizens’ registration will prevent last-minute rushes and have them ready to vote when the country goes to the polls in 2027.
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