Kenyan Government Plans More Diaspora Polling Stations for 2027 Elections
The Kenyan government is considering adding more polling stations in foreign countries before the 2027 elections. This comes after increasing pressure from lawmakers who want more Kenyans living abroad to have access to voting.
The Senate Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights has urged the government to expand voting centers for the diaspora. Committee Chairperson Hillary Sigei stated that senators are committed to ensuring Kenyans abroad can exercise their democratic rights.
A recent meeting between the Senate and the Technical Working Group representing Kenyans in the diaspora focused on ways to improve voting access for citizens living overseas.
Proposed Locations for New Polling Stations
The government is considering new polling centers in major global cities, including Mumbai/New Delhi, Canberra, Madrid, and Johannesburg.
Currently, Kenya has 19 polling stations in cities such as Washington, D.C., London, and Ottawa.
“Every Kenyan abroad should be able to vote without difficulty. While 19 stations are a good start, we must expand further to support inclusive democracy,” Sigei emphasized.
Addressing Logistical and Financial Challenges
Lawmakers also stressed the need to overcome logistical and financial barriers that could slow down the expansion of overseas polling stations.
“It is not just about increasing polling stations. We must ensure proper logistics and funding to run these centers effectively,” Senator Veronica Maina noted.
Diaspora Leaders Push for Faster Implementation
Kenyans living abroad are also pushing for quicker action. Martin Koyabe, the sub-committee chairperson for the United Kingdom, called on the government to establish well-equipped polling stations in major cities.
“We simply want accessible voting centers so that distance does not prevent us from participating in elections. Lawmakers must act fast to protect our voting rights,” Koyabe urged.
Lawmakers Promise Swift Action
Senators have pledged to review the proposals urgently to expand and modernize voting access for Kenyans worldwide.
“This initiative shows our dedication to strengthening democracy and ensuring that no Kenyan is left out due to their location,” lawmakers stated.
The expansion of polling stations will help ensure that more Kenyans abroad can vote easily in the 2027 elections, making the electoral process more inclusive and democratic.
Kenyan Government Plans More Diaspora Polling Stations for 2027 Elections
