Kenyans in the diaspora are advocating for more polling stations and electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections. They assert that these changes are necessary for preserving their constitutional voting rights and amplifying their participation in governance. The Diaspora Working Group proposed amendments to the Elections Act to increase polling locations abroad and urged for enhanced funding for related services.
Kenyans residing abroad have called for an increase in polling stations in anticipation of the 2027 general elections. They assert that expanding voter access is a constitutional right, enabling their participation in the governance of Kenya. During a session with the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, representatives from the Diaspora Working Group underscored the importance of equal voting rights for all Kenyans, regardless of their location.
Led by Danson Mukile from the USA, diaspora representatives have proposed amendments to the Elections Act, advocating for the establishment of additional polling centers abroad. They believe that enhancing financial support to the State Department for Diaspora Affairs can facilitate voter registration, mobile consular services, and increased polling locations. Mercy Kamanja from the UK expressed that such funding would enable Kenyans living overseas to exercise their voting rights more effectively.
The group consists of representatives from several nations, including the USA, UK, and Germany. Robert Chiuri from the USA highlighted the necessity of early planning, sharing that the group has been advocating for changes to the Elections Act for over a year and a half to ensure diaspora involvement. Committee Vice Chair Bashir Abdullahi voiced support for extending voting rights to the diaspora, recognizing their substantial economic contributions, evidenced by remittances of Sh662 billion in 2024.
During discussions, Kinangop MP Kwenya Thuku stressed the importance of fair representation, asserting that taxation should coincide with representation as enshrined in the Constitution. Kajiado Central MP Memusi Kanchory acknowledged the financial constraints the country faces while emphasizing the importance of civic education to ensure diaspora voting accessibility.
Shinyallu MP Fred Ikana called for a technological enhancement in the voting process, proposing that voting opportunities should extend beyond presidential elections to include other positions as well. Similarly, Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan urged for a reinforced representation framework for Kenyans abroad, referencing the Philippine model that provides a dedicated ministry for its diaspora and advocating for greater political influence for Kenyans overseas.
Bashir assured the diaspora representatives of the committee’s commitment to collaborating with the State Department for Foreign Affairs to improve voter access. He affirmed, “Every Kenyan has the right to vote, whether in the country or abroad,” and acknowledged the challenges in practical implementation, including the proposal to introduce Honorary Consuls in key locations to address existing gaps.
In conclusion, Kenyans in the diaspora are actively advocating for enhanced voting rights ahead of the 2027 elections. Their calls for increased polling stations and electoral reforms reflect their commitment to participating in Kenya’s governance. Key representatives emphasize the need for support from the government to facilitate these changes and ensure that every Kenyan can exercise their constitutional right to vote, whether at home or abroad.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
