Kenyan Lawmakers Push National ID for Diaspora Voting

Kenyan legislators are seeking to expand voting access for citizens living abroad by proposing the use of the national identity card as an official document for diaspora voting.

The proposal, currently under discussion in Parliament, aims to remove the requirement that Kenyans overseas must hold a valid passport to register and vote. Lawmakers backing the move argue that many citizens in the diaspora are unfairly excluded from elections due to the high cost, long processing times, and limited access to passports.

Supporters say recognising the national ID card would significantly increase participation, noting that millions of Kenyans abroad possess valid IDs but lack passports. They also describe the reform as a step toward inclusive democracy and alignment with constitutional guarantees of universal suffrage.

However, concerns have been raised about verification, security, and logistical challenges, particularly in ensuring credible identification outside the country. Electoral authorities would need to update regulations and systems if the proposal is adopted.

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The debate forms part of broader electoral reforms ahead of Kenya’s next general election, as pressure grows to strengthen diaspora participation in national decision-making.