PS Bitok: Maisha Number Will Not Be Mandatory
The administration of President William Ruto has altered its stance on the requirement for all Kenyans to register for Maisha Number.
While commemorating World Identification Day at Nyayo Gardens in Nakuru, Immigration and Citizen Services Principal Secretary Julius Bitok announced that Kenyans will have the option of registering for Maisha Number or ignoring it entirely.
Bitok, who oversaw the mass registrations for birth certificates, national ID cards, and passports in the county of Nakuru, stated that the new registration system that incorporates a birth-to-death unique identification number known as Maisha Namba will not be mandatory.
“I want to assure Kenyans that no one will be forced to take up Maisha Card. The current IDs will continue to be recognized as valid identification documents alongside the new card,” Bitok stated.
The latest statements by the Principal Secretary represent a departure from previous assertions that every Kenyan would be required to obtain a unique identifier.
However, Biko insisted that the Maisha Number is intended to replace the current national ID card system and will provide the holder with more benefits; consequently, it will be crucial for all citizens.
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According to the principal secretary, the new card will feature enhanced technological and security components. Unlike the current IDs, it will also accommodate a digital ID mode of identification.
The PS explained that the existing identification number would be transferred to Maisha Namba. All neonates and first-time ID applicants will receive a permanent Maisha Namba that will serve as their registration number for school, NHIF KRA, and other government services.
He also allayed concerns that the new ID that is being introduced to comply with international identification standards will burden Kenyans, noting that existing ID holders will not be required to undergo a new biometrics registration.
“We want to make the transition as seamless and convenient as possible. We foresee a 3-5 years phase out of current IDs. But we are confident many Kenyans will embrace Maisha Card because of the benefits it will give them,” Bitok stated.
The system will also offer an optional Digital ID, which will be an online version of a national ID that is accepted as a genuine form of identification.
“Kenya is a member of the East Africa Common Market Protocol that promotes electronic national ID cards conforming to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards for travel documents,” he stated.
PS Bitok: Maisha Number Will Not Be Mandatory