Kenyans in the diaspora are urging for increased polling stations and electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections, citing their constitutional right to vote. They proposed amendments to the Elections Act and called for enhanced funding to support voter registration and mobile consular services. The National Assembly Committee expressed support for these initiatives, recognizing the significant contributions of the diaspora to the nation’s economy.
Kenyan citizens residing abroad are advocating for the establishment of additional polling stations in anticipation of the 2027 general elections. This initiative stems from their desire to exercise their constitutional right to vote and to participate actively in the governance of Kenya. The Diaspora Working Group articulated these concerns during a presentation to the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, highlighting that Kenyans should have equal voting rights irrespective of their location.
The group’s leader, Danson Mukile from the United States, proposed amendments to the Elections Act aimed at broadening voting rights by increasing voting locations overseas. They conveyed that enhanced funding for the State Department for Diaspora Affairs would be instrumental in advancing voter registration and creating mobile consular services, which could facilitate voting.
Notably, Mercy Kamanja from Scotland articulated, “With increased funding, the State Department can establish mobile consulates and polling stations, enabling Kenyans abroad to exercise their constitutional right to vote.” The diverse group includes representatives from countries such as the UK, Belgium, Germany, China, and Saudi Arabia, demonstrating a united front.
In emphasizing the necessity for timely preparations, Robert Chiuri from the USA remarked, “We have been in existence for more than a year and a half advocating for amendments to the Elections Act to enable Kenyans in the diaspora to vote.” This anticipation is seen as essential for ensuring full participation in the upcoming elections and fostering greater inclusion of the diaspora community.
Vice Chair Bashir Abdullahi of the Committee expressed support for the diaspora’s voting rights, acknowledging their significant contributions, particularly through remittances. He noted that these remittances reached Sh662 billion in 2024, underscoring the vital economic role played by the diaspora.
Addressing matters of representation, Kinangop MP Kwenya Thuku reminded the committee of constitutional principles, asserting that “There cannot be taxation without representation.” He urged support for enhancing mobile consular services as a pathway to uphold the diaspora’s voting rights.
Kajiado Central MP Memusi Kanchory pointed out the pressing financial challenges facing the country, while stressing the importance of civic education to empower voters. He questioned how technology could be leveraged in developed countries to foster civic participation among Kenyans abroad.
Shinyallu MP Fred Ikana advocated for the integration of technology within the voting process, emphasizing that voting rights should encompass all elective positions, not solely the presidential election. He stressed the importance of finding innovative methods to enable diaspora engagement in democracy.
Moreover, Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan called for enhanced representation for Kenyans abroad, invoking the example of the Philippines, which has implemented special measures for its diaspora. He encouraged diasporans to demand more significant political influence given their considerable economic contributions.
Assuring the representatives of the diaspora, Bashir indicated the committee’s commitment to collaborating closely with the State Department for Foreign Affairs to bridge existing voting access gaps. He affirmed, “We are all in agreement that every Kenyan has the right to vote, whether in the country or abroad.”
In summary, Kenyans in the diaspora are actively advocating for more polling stations and electoral reforms to enhance their voting rights for the 2027 elections. Their representatives emphasized the constitutional right to vote, the necessity of increased funding for supporting electoral processes, and the importance of technology in enhancing voter participation. With strong support from the National Assembly Committee, there is a concerted effort to address the barriers to voting faced by diaspora members and ensure their voices are heard in the governance of Kenya.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
