Kenyans Abroad Advocate for Increased Polling Stations and Electoral Reforms Ahead of 2027 Elections

Kenyans living abroad are advocating for increased polling stations and electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections, emphasizing their constitutional right to vote. The Diaspora Working Group has proposed amendments to the Elections Act and requested enhanced funding for the State Department for Diaspora Affairs. Committee members show support, acknowledging the diaspora’s economic contributions and the need for improved voting access.

Kenyans residing abroad have urged for the establishment of additional polling stations in anticipation of the 2027 general elections. This call emphasizes their constitutional right to vote and aims to enhance their active engagement in Kenyan governance. The Diaspora Working Group, representing various countries, articulated these demands during a session with the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations.

Led by Danson Mukile from the USA, the group has proposed amendments to the Elections Act to facilitate expanded voting rights for Kenyans overseas by increasing the number of polling centers. They advocate for more funding to the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, which would support voter registration, mobile consular services, and the establishment of new polling sites.

Mercy Kamanja from the UK underscored that enhanced funding would enable the creation of mobile consulates and additional polling stations, allowing Kenyans abroad to fulfill their voting rights. The diaspora representatives emphasized that effective early preparations are crucial to guarantee their full participation in the upcoming elections.

The Vice Chair of the committee, Bashir Abdullahi, acknowledged the contributions of the diaspora, particularly their remittances which totaled Sh662 billion in 2024 and supported the call for expanded voting rights. Kinangop MP Kwenya Thuku reiterated that taxation should coincide with representation, advocating for increased polling centers and improved mobile consular services.

Kajiado Central MP Memusi Kanchory expressed concerns regarding the financial constraints the country faces but recognized the need for civic education to enhance voting accessibility. He highlighted that effective use of technology could facilitate this objective within developed nations.

Shinyallu MP Fred Ikana emphasized the necessity of integrating technology into the voting process, advocating for the inclusion of various electoral positions beyond just the presidential election. Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan reinforced the need for diaspora representation, encouraging Kenyans living abroad to demand greater political influence similar to that of the Philippines, which has specialized ministries and tax benefits for its overseas citizens.

Bashir assured the diaspora representatives that the committee would collaborate with the State Department for Foreign Affairs to address voter access issues. The overarching consensus remains that every Kenyan, regardless of their location, has an inherent right to participate in the democratic process, prompting investigations into practical solutions to facilitate voting from abroad.

Kenyans in the diaspora assert their constitutional right to vote, demanding more polling stations and electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections. Their advocacy, backed by proposed amendments and increased funding requests, aims to enhance voter engagement and representation. Collaboration with government bodies is essential to ensure these rights are realized and effectively implemented.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke