West Pokot County Commissioner David Saruni has urged residents to turn out in large numbers and register as voters, describing the ongoing exercise as a critical civic process ahead of the next general election.
Speaking during a spot-check tour across various parts of the county, Saruni called on those who have already registered to encourage others including family members, friends, and neighbours, to enlist before the deadline.
He emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring that all eligible citizens participate in the democratic process.
The County Commissioner made the appeal while inspecting key government development projects, assessing the issuance of national identity cards and reviewing security preparedness in the region.
As part of his tour, he also monitored the progress of voter registration at Sigor and Lomut shopping centres in Pokot Central Sub-County.
Saruni expressed satisfaction with the response from residents, noting that many people were showing up to register.
He highlighted improvements in the processing of national identity cards, revealing that applicants can now receive their IDs within three days, a significant improvement compared to previous delays.
“I am impressed by the positive response from residents. Many people are coming out to register and prepare for the upcoming general election,” he said.
The county commissioner residents who do not yet have national identity cards to apply immediately, stressing that possession of the document is a mandatory requirement for voter registration.
Saruni further reminded eligible voters that the ongoing exercise will end on April 28, urging them not to wait until the last minute.
“Every citizen has a right to vote. It is important that people register so they can participate in choosing leaders of their choice,” he added.
Residents who have already registered echoed the Commissioner’s call, underscoring the importance of civic participation.
John Asecha, a voter from Masol Ward, said he has been voting for over 20 years and understands the value of taking part in elections.
“Voting gives us the power to choose leaders who represent our interests. I urge those who have not registered to do so before the deadline,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kapenguria Constituency Registration Officer Enock Otara reported that the constituency has registered 32,827 new voters, surpassing its target of 25,097. This achievement represents 131 percent of the initial target, with a surplus of 7,730 registrations.
Otara noted that with four days remaining before the close of the exercise, registration teams are aiming to reach between 35,000 and 40,000 new voters in the constituency.
He expressed optimism that the target would be exceeded even further if the current momentum is sustained.
He added that similar progress has been recorded in other constituencies across the county, indicating a generally strong turnout in the ongoing nationwide exercise.
The voter registration drive is being conducted in accordance with electoral laws and is expected to close on April 28.
Authorities have continued to encourage all eligible citizens to take advantage of the remaining time to register and secure their chance to participate in the upcoming 2027 polls.
By Antony Melly
