IEBC officially launches a nationwide continuous voter registration exercise.
Written by John on September 30, 2025
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, that is the IEBC, has officially launched a nationwide continuous voter registration exercise aiming to enlist at least 6.3 million new voters ahead of the next general election. The exercise was flagged off in Kajiado County, marking a significant shift in voter registration.
For the first time, the Commission has incorporated eye-risk recognition as part of the biometric data captured for voters. This comes amid growing concerns over data privacy and the potential misuse of personal information, and the first day of the drive recorded very low voter turnout, with the exercise postponed in areas where there will be by-elections in November.
The electoral body is targeting at least 6.3 million new voters ahead of the next general elections. For the first time, the IEBC has introduced iris recognition technology as part of its biometric data collection process, while the Commission touts the move as a significant step towards improving data accuracy and eliminating duplicate registrations.
The rollout has sparked concern among some stakeholders over potential breaches of personal and data privacy rights. IEBC, however, defended the system, saying adequate safeguards have been put in place. In the meantime, voter registration remains suspended in areas slated for by-elections, including six National Assembly constituencies and several wards where electoral contests are scheduled.
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By Jesline Ongubo
The author is an experienced radio journalist and media manager.
