The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is targeting to register more than 40,000 new voters in Kirinyaga County during Phase One of the Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration (ECVR) exercise.
According to Kirinyaga County IEBC Manager Jane Gitonga, the 30-day exercise was officially launched in Kutus and is aimed at bringing voter registration services closer to residents across the county.
Gitonga said the devolved registration approach is particularly focused on reaching the youth, urging them to confirm their voter registration status, ensure they have valid voter cards, or register if they are not yet enrolled.
“To achieve this, we have deployed three KIEMS kits in every ward. Residents do not need to travel to Kutus as they can access registration services within their wards. They can consult their local chiefs or IEBC officials to identify the nearest registration centres,” she said.
She emphasized that the commission has put in place adequate measures to ensure the process runs smoothly and efficiently, with officers stationed at various points to assist residents.
Allan Ademba, founder of the Tuko Kadi Initiative, who attended the launch in Kutus, said the movement is a citizen-driven effort aimed at encouraging voter participation across the country.
“Tuko Kadi is not led by an individual but by Kenyans themselves. It exists for Kenyans, and many are embracing it as a platform to promote civic responsibility,” he said.
Ademba noted that with the 2027 General Election approaching, young people have a critical role in shaping the country’s leadership for the next five years. He urged them to take advantage of the ongoing registration exercise by enrolling as voters and safeguarding their voter cards.
“My biggest call to the youth is to show up and obtain a voter’s card. Participation in civic and political processes begins with registration,” he added.
He further encouraged young people to consider vying for leadership positions, including Member of County Assembly, Member of Parliament, senator, governor, women representative, and even president.
“We have the power to elect ourselves as leaders. If you are capable and committed, step forward and demonstrate your leadership ability. The youth will support you,” he said.
Ademba reiterated that Tuko Kadi is non-partisan and not affiliated with any political party, stressing that Kenyans ultimately have the power to choose their leaders in a democratic society.
By Mutai Kipngetich
