MP Babu Owino Rallies Youth for Voter Registration

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has intensified calls for Kenyans to register as voters, linking the civic duty to the fight against corruption and impunity in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election. Speaking on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, via his X page, Owino, who has declared his intention to contest the Nairobi gubernatorial seat, urged citizens to encourage their friends to register or transfer their votes at IEBC constituency offices.

IEBC's Continuous Voter Registration Drive

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) officially resumed its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise on Monday, September 29, 2025. This nationwide initiative aims to expand Kenya's voter base from 22.1 million to an estimated 28.4 million, with a particular focus on young people who have recently turned 18. The exercise allows eligible Kenyans to register as new voters, transfer their registration to a new location, or update their existing details. Registration services are available at all IEBC constituency offices across the country, except in areas currently holding by-elections.

Political Landscape and Owino's Gubernatorial Ambitions

Babu Owino's call for voter registration is intertwined with his political aspirations. He has publicly declared his bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election. Recent surveys, such as one conducted by ISS Africa in September 2025, suggest Owino is a leading contender, commanding 28.1% support among Nairobi voters, surpassing incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja. His popularity is notably strong among Gen-Z voters aged 18–24. Owino has indicated his resolve to run for governor with or without the endorsement of his party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

Stakeholder Engagement and Voter Education

The IEBC has emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagements and voter education as part of its preparatory activities for the CVR. These efforts are crucial for building awareness and promoting public participation in the electoral process. The commission has allocated KSh 2.5 billion for stakeholder engagement and voter education, out of a total KSh 8 billion dedicated to the voter registration exercise.

Risks and Implications

The success of the continuous voter registration exercise is vital for ensuring a credible and inclusive 2027 General Election. Challenges could include voter apathy, logistical hurdles in remote areas, and potential misinformation campaigns. The IEBC has stated its commitment to data protection compliance and the use of biometric Voter Registration kits to ensure accuracy and transparency.

What to Watch

Observers will be closely watching the turnout for the continuous voter registration, particularly among the youth, as this demographic is projected to significantly influence the 2027 elections. The political implications of increased voter registration, especially in key urban centres like Nairobi, will also be a focal point, as candidates like Babu Owino leverage the exercise to bolster their campaigns.