Matiang'i Issues Ultimatum on ID Delays

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has issued a strong warning to the government, vowing "tough action" if the reported irregularities and delays in the issuance of national identity cards continue. Speaking in Nakuru on Friday, October 3, 2025, during a meeting with Gen Z youth, Matiang'i stated that the opposition would not tolerate the government's alleged frustration of young Kenyans seeking ID cards, especially with general elections approaching.

Matiang'i asserted that denying young people access to national identification documents is a deliberate tactic to prevent them from registering as voters. He argued that the current administration fears the youth will not support its re-election bid. He criticised the recurring excuses at registration centres, such as claims of missing IDs and issues with ID card printers, dismissing them as unacceptable given Kenya's more than six decades of independence.

“We will review that situation in the country. If people are denied ID cards so that they don’t register to vote, we will organise one day. We will organise one day. People are not going to play these kinds of silly games that we don’t want to do,” Matiang'i stated.

Context and Policy Implications

The issuance of national identity cards is a critical civic process in Kenya, serving as the primary document for identification, voter registration, and access to various government services. Delays in this process disproportionately affect young citizens, many of whom are first-time applicants. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) relies on these documents for voter registration drives, which are essential for ensuring eligible citizens participate in elections.

The government's official stance on ID card issuance has consistently emphasised efficiency and accessibility. However, reports from various civil society organisations and media outlets have highlighted persistent challenges, including bureaucratic hurdles, corruption allegations, and technical malfunctions at registration centres. These issues often lead to long waiting periods and repeated visits for applicants, particularly in rural areas and among low-income populations.

Stakeholder Concerns and Evidence

Analysts suggest that Matiang'i's statements could significantly influence public discourse and policy implementation regarding national identification. Stakeholders, including human rights organisations and youth advocacy groups, have consistently called for greater transparency and efficiency in the ID issuance process. They urge the government to provide clear timelines, outline the costs involved, and implement safeguards to prevent discrimination or deliberate disenfranchisement.

The National Registration Bureau (NRB), under the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, is the primary government agency responsible for issuing national identity cards. While the NRB aims to process applications within a reasonable timeframe, anecdotal evidence and media reports frequently point to delays extending for months, sometimes even years, for some applicants. The exact number of young Kenyans currently awaiting ID cards remains unknown, but it is estimated to be substantial, particularly among those who have recently attained the age of 18.

Risks and Implications

The continued delay in ID issuance poses several risks. Foremost among them is the potential disenfranchisement of eligible voters, which could undermine the integrity of future elections. It also hinders young people's access to essential services, including employment, financial services, and educational opportunities, all of which often require a national ID. Politically, the issue could become a significant campaign point for the opposition, potentially mobilising youth discontent against the ruling party.

What to Watch

Observers will be closely watching for the government's response to Matiang'i's ultimatum. Key developments to monitor include any official statements from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration or the National Registration Bureau addressing the alleged delays. Additionally, any organised protests or legal actions threatened by the opposition or civil society groups will indicate the escalating nature of this issue. The IEBC's plans for upcoming voter registration drives and how they intend to mitigate the impact of ID delays will also be crucial.