The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of Kenya is exploring the possibility of allowing Kenyans living in the diaspora to vote electronically in future elections. IEBC Vice Chair Fahima Abdallah made this announcement during a recent engagement with Kenyans in New York. The proposed system aims to enable Kenyans abroad to exercise their right to vote without having to physically visit a Kenyan embassy or consulate.
Currently, Kenyan citizens living abroad can only vote at embassies, high commissions, or consulates. However, the IEBC is working to change this, citing the need to enhance technology and facilitate democratic participation. According to Abdallah, the commission aims to implement electronic voting for the diaspora by 2032, although this may not be feasible for the upcoming election.
The IEBC is also considering expanding voter registration to 14 additional countries, with the decision based on population. Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana, who accompanied Abdallah to New York, emphasized that the selection of countries will be determined by the number of Kenyan residents. This move is expected to increase the number of Kenyans who can participate in the electoral process.
The current regulations governing voter registration and elections abroad are based on the presence of a Kenyan embassy, high commission, or consulate. However, the IEBC is working to revise these regulations and make it possible for Kenyans to vote electronically. This development is expected to enhance the democratic rights of Kenyans living abroad.
The announcement has been welcomed by Kenyans in the diaspora, who have long called for easier voting procedures. The IEBC's move is seen as a step towards increasing participation and inclusivity in the electoral process. The commission is working with other institutions to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is put in place to facilitate electronic voting.
The implementation of electronic voting for Kenyans in the diaspora is subject to various factors, including technological and logistical considerations. However, the IEBC is committed to making this a reality, with Abdallah expressing optimism about the prospects of success. The commission's goal is to ensure that all Kenyans, regardless of their location, can exercise their democratic rights.
The IEBC's plans for electronic voting and expanded voter registration are part of a broader effort to enhance the electoral process in Kenya. The commission is working to address various challenges and concerns, including those related to voter registration, electoral security, and technology. Key points include:
Key points
- The IEBC aims to introduce electronic voting for Kenyans in the diaspora by 2032.
- The decision on which countries will be added to the list of countries where Kenyans can register as voters will be based on population.
- The current regulations governing voter registration and elections abroad are based on the presence of a Kenyan embassy, high commission, or consulate.
