NAIROBI, Kenya Jan 30 – Leaders allied to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) have intensified calls for mass voter registration ahead of the 2027 General Election, even as political engagements between UDA and the opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) continue to reshape Kenya’s political landscape.
The voter sensitisation drive is being spearheaded by UDA nominated Senators Tabitha Mutinda and ODM Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana, alongside Nairobi South Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Waithera Chege, with a strong focus on mobilising youth and women, whom the leaders say will play a decisive role in future elections.
Speaking during a civic engagement forum in Nairobi, the leaders urged young people—particularly Gen Z—to register as voters to ensure they actively participate in electing leaders of integrity.
UDA nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda, who has declared her intention to vie for the Nairobi Woman Representative seat in 2027, called on women to lead voter mobilisation efforts within their households.
“Women are the ones who put leaders into leadership. I urge women who have not registered, and even your husbands and children who are eligible, to ensure they acquire voter identity cards,” Mutinda said.
She added that UDA leaders would engage the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure voter registration centres are established across all ward zones to enhance accessibility.
On the evolving political climate, ODM nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana said the ongoing engagements between UDA and ODM leaders have contributed to political stability.
“If there is something Raila Odinga has brought to this country, it is peace. That is why you see UDA and ODM leaders sitting together. Peace has thrived,” Kibwana said.
MCA Waithera Chege noted that data indicates a large number of young people, especially Gen Z, are yet to register as voters, a gap she warned could weaken youth representation in elective leadership.
“Many young people have not taken voter identity cards. We are mobilising young women so they can register and elect leaders of their choice,” Chege said.
The leaders also expressed confidence that President William Ruto would secure a second term in 2027, citing development projects rolled out under his administration.
Meanwhile, IEBC has announced plans to roll out a mass voter registration exercise starting March 29, 2026, targeting an additional five million voters.
“Enhanced voter registration will be ward-based, with the objective of expanding the voter register from 22.1 million to approximately 27.4 million voters,” IEBC Chair Ethekon said.
The commission is currently conducting continuous voter registration at constituency offices, with the broader exercise expected to enlist 6.3 million new voters, 70 per cent of whom are youths.
