The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in Kiambu Constituency has put in place measures aimed at improving access to voter registration and polling services for persons with disabilities (PWDs) ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
The measures basically promise preferential assistance to PWDs and other vulnerable persons during both voter registration and polling exercises.
They were outlined during a stakeholder forum in Kiambu Town on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 that brought together women, persons with disabilities and voter registration officials as part of the ongoing Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration (ECVR) exercise.
The current registration phase, which began on March 30, 2026, will run until April 28, 2026.
IEBC officials said the commission is targeting 6.3 million new voters nationally, with 2.5 million expected to be registered during the 30-day first phase.
The Registration Officer (RO) Kiambu Constituency, Beatrice Muli said the commission has shifted from office-based registration to a community-centred model to make the process more accessible. She urged stakeholders present to help identify suitable and accessible venues within wards to ensure persons with disabilities can register without barriers.
Participants raised concerns about access to polling stations on election day, to which Carol Muriithi, who oversees voter mobilisation in Kiambu Constituency, responded that PWDs would receive priority assistance.
“Every person who is a PWD and comes to the polling station will find IEBC officers within the vicinity. You approach us, and we help you access the polling rooms and cast your vote without being squeezed in the queue,” she explained.
Beyond addressing accessibility for persons with disabilities, the forum also placed emphasis on the role of women in strengthening voter mobilisation efforts within the constituency.
Muli noted that women play a critical role at both family and community levels in encouraging civic participation and urged women leaders to sensitise their households and community groups on the importance of voter registration and participation in elections.
“Women are strong mobilisers at family and societal levels. Let us keep reminding our children (Gen Zs) about voter registration and why we need to vote,” she added.
The RO further reminded participants that elections should be viewed as a continuous cycle rather than a one-time event. She explained that beyond voting day, the commission undertakes boundary reviews, voter education, stakeholder engagement, procurement of election materials and continuous updating of the voter register.
by Rose Muthoni
