Kenyan Diaspora Slams IEBC for Excluding Them from Ongoing Voter Registration

Nairobi, Kenya — 2025-09-16 13:30 EAT. Kenyan citizens living abroad have accused the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of disenfranchising them after the agency confirmed it will not register overseas voters during the ongoing voter registration exercise.

The Latest

• Diaspora Network Hub, led by founder Mudge Rulf, called the move a “deliberate tactic” to deny expatriates their constitutional right to vote.

• The group questioned why the government “fears Diasporans” and warned it will assess 2027 presidential candidates based on their commitment to expanding voting rights for Kenyans abroad.

Background and Context

• A 2024 petition to Parliament sought:

  • More polling stations in foreign cities.

  • Alternative voting options beyond embassies and consulates.

• Petitioners cited Nigeria, Rwanda, India, and Ghana as examples of countries enabling broader diaspora participation.

• A separate petition by Senator Okita Omtatah challenged rules requiring diaspora voters to hold Kenyan passports, but the High Court dismissed it in May 2023.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Mudge Rulf, Diaspora Network Hub: Said overseas Kenyans contribute heavily through remittances yet remain “politically sidelined”.

• Diaspora advocates: Insist reforms would strengthen democracy and encourage economic investment from citizens abroad.

• IEBC: Has not explained why the 2025 voter registration drive excludes overseas voters.

Implications

• Political risk: Presidential candidates risk alienating a diaspora that sent home over KSh 600 billion in 2024through remittances.

• Democratic inclusivity: Critics warn exclusion undermines universal suffrage guarantees in Kenya’s Constitution.

• Legislative push: Calls for Parliament to amend electoral laws before 2027 elections intensify.

What to Watch

• Whether IEBC revises its stance amid diaspora pressure.

• Parliamentary action on expanding polling stations and relaxing passport rules.

• Campaign pledges by 2027 candidates targeting overseas voters.