The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has held an engagement forum with the leadership of the Nairobi Association of the Deaf, marking a significant step toward strengthening participation of the deaf and visually impaired communities in Kenya’s electoral processes.
The consultation provided a platform for the Association to share firsthand experiences and challenges encountered by persons with disabilities seeking to participate fully in the country’s democratic systems.
IEBC Vice Chairperson Ms. Fahima Abdalla reaffirmed that meaningful partnership begins with understanding the everyday realities of Kenyans living with disabilities. She emphasized that such engagements guide the Commission as it works to refine systems and ensure that no voter is left behind.
“The Commission appreciates the spirit of this partnership because it helps us understand the real challenges Kenyans, and specifically Persons with Disabilities, face. Your feedback will help us evaluate our systems and processes to ensure inclusivity,” she said.
Commissioner Dr. Alutalala Mukhwana, Chairperson of the Voter Education, Partnerships, Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Committee, reiterated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to accessibility and equality within the electoral space.
“It is in the interest of our people, it is in the interest of our democracy, and it is demanded by our Constitution. We have a duty—both moral and legal—to uphold the rights of every member of the public,” he said.
Dr. Mukhwana also commended the Association’s powerful slogan, “From Silence to Strength,” noting that it captures the resilience and contribution of the deaf community to the nation’s democratic journey.
On her part, Commissioner MaryKaren Sorobit, Chair of the Legal Compliance and Political Parties Liaison Committee, stressed that integrity must remain at the heart of disability inclusion, particularly in relation to political party nominations. She warned that the disability category must not be misused for political advantage.
“While we recognize and advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, we also have a duty to ensure that the category is not abused. We will work diligently to ensure that nominations under this category reflect genuine cases. It will not be easy, but we will take it step by step, with consistency and fairness,” she said.
Commissioner Dr. Ann Nderitu, Chairperson of the Election Operations Committee, emphasized that disability is a universal condition that anyone can experience at any stage in life. She reminded participants that building accessible systems ensures the country is prepared to serve all citizens now and in the future.
“This is why disability inclusion is not a favour; it is a necessity. When we build strong, accessible systems, we serve everyone—both those living with disabilities now and those who may need these accommodations in the future,” she explained.
During the session, the Deaf Community presented key recommendations to advance inclusion in electoral processes. These included ensuring adequate registration and accurate data of deaf voters; providing voter education in accessible formats such as sign language interpretation, visual aids, and simplified materials; and guaranteeing equal participation on election day through deployment of qualified sign language interpreters in polling stations. They also recommended the presence of police officers trained in Kenyan Sign Language, the appointment of Deaf Officers within IEBC to coordinate services, and improved accessibility of electronic voter registration and voting systems where applicable.
IEBC Secretary/CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan highlighted progress achieved in the previous voter registration cycle ahead of the 2022 General Election, noting a 5.42 percent increase in registered eligible persons with disabilities. He expressed optimism that the early timing of the current collaboration provides ample room to strengthen first-time voter registration, enhance continuous voter education, and significantly improve participation in the 2027 General Election.
The engagement was widely viewed as an essential step toward deepening inclusivity in Kenya’s democratic landscape—one where every citizen, regardless of ability, can participate freely, confidently, and with dignity.
by Joseph Ng’ang’a
