How to Register as a Voter in Kenya

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has a step-by-step process of registering voters in Kenya.

Voter registration is the process of recording personal particulars of eligible citizens in the voters register to allow them vote in elections and referendums.

Importance of Voter Registration

1. Enables one to vie or participate in an election.

2. Provides information that assist with election planning and logistics.

3. Determines voter allocation to polling station.

4. Assists in computation of electoral participation in an election.

5. Plays a major role in voter education especially for special groups.

Voter Registration Frequency

Voter registration can either be carried out periodically or continuously.

In periodic voter registration, a new register of voters is prepared every time there is an election and only used for purposes of that election.

Continuous voter registration involves updating an existing register of voters. This is what the IEBC uses in Kenya.

The commission occasionally undertakes mass voter registration to enhance continuous voter registration.

IEBC Requirements

1.Be a Kenyan citizen.
2.Be 18 years of age or above.
3.Possess a valid Kenyan Passport or National Identity Card.
4.You should not be registered elsewhere.
5.Not have been convicted of an election offence for the past 5 years.
6.Not have been declared of unsound mind.

Voter Registration Process 

1. Confirm that you’re an eligible citizen – Have a valid passport or ID Card. Be 18 years of age and above.

2. Ensure you are not registered elsewhere.

3. Go to the official Registration office – IEBC constituency offices, Huduma centre in major towns or any other place recommended to go.

4. Carry with you the right document as required by IEBC.

5. Fill the registration form. First time registration, you’ll complete form A. If you’re changing polling station, you’ll be given a transfer form to fill.

6. The clerk will take your biometric details; take your fingerprints to capture your data.

7. After successful registration, a slip is given showing details, your name, polling station, and voter number. The slip will not be a requirement for voting, but the ID.

A person can only register once as a voter.

A person with more than one registration is to be convicted and barred from participating in any upcoming election.

They can also be subjected to a fine not exceeding Ksh100,000 or one year imprisonment.

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A picture of IEBC Chair Mr.Erastus Ekong’. PHOTO/IEBC X.