Senate Pushes For More Polling Stations For Kenyans Abroad

Pressure is mounting on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to expand polling stations for Kenyans living abroad.

The Senate Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights met with a Technical Working Group representing the diaspora to discuss ways to improve voting access for citizens outside the country.

According to recent data from the IEBC and proposals in the Election Amendment Bill, Kenya currently operates 19 polling stations in cities such as Washington, D.C., London, and Ottawa.

However, the committee is considering expanding to new locations, including Mumbai, New Delhi, Canberra, Madrid, and Johannesburg, to accommodate the growing number of Kenyan voters abroad.

Speaking during the session, Committee Chair Senator Wakili Hillary Sigei stressed the need for inclusive electoral participation.

“We must ensure that every Kenyan abroad can cast their vote without unnecessary challenges. While the current 19 polling stations are a good start, expanding them demonstrates our commitment to an inclusive democracy,” he said.

Vice Chair Senetor Veronica Maina pointed out the logistical and financial challenges of setting up new polling centers.

“Beyond increasing polling stations, we must carefully assess the costs and operational frameworks required to sustain them efficiently,” she noted.

Dr. Martin Koyabe, the UK Sub-Committee Chair, echoed the diaspora’s concerns, urging lawmakers to act quickly. “Our request is simple—set up more well-equipped polling stations in major cities so that distance does not prevent us from exercising our democratic right,” he stated.

The committee pledged to fast-track discussions on the proposals, aiming to enhance voting access for Kenyans worldwide.