Govt Sparks Uproar After Publishing Couples’ Photos, Wedding Dates Online
Kenyans are reacting with surprise and concern after discovering that the eCitizen platform now shares personal details of soon-to-be-married couples — including their names, photos, and wedding dates.
This unexpected move, which first gained attention on social media, changes the way the Registrar of Marriages operates. Previously, such private information was not available to the public online.
Many people have taken to social media to express mixed feelings. Some are questioning whether this new practice follows Kenya’s Data Protection Laws, which safeguard personal data under the Constitution.
Others, in a more humorous tone, joked that the update might expose people who are involved in secret relationships — and ruin a few affairs along the way.
Stories have already started circulating online, with users saying they’ve found out about their partners’ hidden marriages or engagements through the platform. One person wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“The Registrar of Marriages is now posting names, photos, and wedding dates online. If someone disappears on you, check here first. Viewer discretion is advised!”
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Another said:
“You can now see who’s getting married through eCitizen. You can also search for people who are already married — for a fee. Now there’s nowhere to hide!”
Under Kenyan law, couples planning to wed must first file a Notice of Marriage with the Registrar. Traditionally, a printed copy of this notice would be pinned on the office door for 21 days, allowing anyone with legal objections to come forward.
That process has now gone digital. While this online notice serves the same legal purpose, it now includes personal details like photos and wedding dates — something that was never part of the original public notice.
To apply for a marriage license in Kenya, both parties must present a valid Kenyan ID or passport and provide recent passport-sized photos. Foreign nationals may also need to show a visitor’s permit or proof of residence, along with an affidavit confirming they are not already married.
Kenya’s Marriage Act recognises five types of marriages: Civil, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, and Customary. Marriage is open to two Kenyan citizens, a Kenyan and a foreigner, or even two foreign nationals who wish to marry in Kenya.
Govt Sparks Uproar After Publishing Couples’ Photos, Wedding Dates Online
