The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has firmly stated that the ongoing Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration (ECVR) will not be extended beyond its scheduled closing date.
The exercise, which began on March 30, 2026, is due to conclude on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon has urged all eligible citizens to register as soon as possible, noting that only a few days remain. After the deadline, fresh registrations will return to the normal process at constituency offices.
So far, the commission has registered more than 1.37 million new voters since the enhanced drive started. A significant increase was observed in the final weeks, with nearly half a million additions recorded in one recent seven-day period. The IEBC has deployed mobile registration kits across all 1,450 county assembly wards, higher learning institutions, Huduma centres, and other convenient locations. These open kits allow Kenyans to register at any nearby centre without needing to travel to their home constituency.
Chairperson Ethekon has warned political leaders and other stakeholders against turning the registration process into a political tool. He emphasised that voter registration is a civic duty meant to strengthen democracy ahead of the 2027 General Election, not a platform for partisan mobilisation or interference. The commission has appealed for calm and focused participation, especially encouraging young people and first-time voters to take advantage of the remaining time
This firm position comes as the country prepares for future elections, with the IEBC aiming to build a clean, accurate, and inclusive voters’ register. Officials have reminded the public that timely registration helps avoid last-minute rushes and ensures everyone who qualifies can exercise their right to vote. Areas facing by-elections or election petitions currently have restrictions on new registrations to maintain fairness.
As the April 28 deadline approaches, the IEBC continues to call on citizens to visit the nearest registration point during the Easter period and final days. With no possibility of an extension, the message is clear: those who wish to be included in the updated register must act quickly. The commission has pledged to maintain transparency and efficiency throughout the final phase of this important national exercise.
Kenyans are encouraged to register responsibly and contribute to a credible electoral process that reflects the will of the people.
Leave a comment