Nyando: The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has registered more than 5,000 new voters in the ongoing continuous voter registration exercise in Nyando Constituency, Kisumu County. The Constituency Election Coordinator, Nicholas Mutai, revealed that the Commission has also processed 300 cases of voter transfers, despite concerns over the low turnout of young people in the exercise.
According to Kenya News Agency, the electoral official noted a significant decline in youth participation, even with the deployment of voter registration kits across various centers in the constituency. Mutai mentioned that while registration is progressing, residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the distance to the centers and a prevailing sense of political disillusionment.
The Constituency Assistant Election Coordinator, Irene Awuor, highlighted disparities in registration patterns across different geographical areas. Kobura Ward recorded the highest number of registrations compared to Ahero, Awasi/Onjiko, Kabonyo/Kanyagwal, and East Kano/Wawidhi wards. Awuor also pointed out a gender imbalance, with women comprising the majority of the newly registered voters.
Local resident Dastan Omondi shared his experience of walking four kilometers to register at the DCC’s compound in Awasi, noting the smooth and efficient process handled by professional staff. He attributed the low turnout to deep-rooted apathy and a belief among his neighbors that voting yields no tangible benefits from elected leaders.
Awuor emphasized the absence of technical issues, stating that the biometric registration machines are functioning efficiently without logistical problems. She called for grassroots mobilization to engage more youth in the registration process.
Mutai urged community leaders, civil society organizations, and political actors to conduct civic education to encourage the younger generation to register as voters. He assured that voter registration remains open indefinitely for all eligible citizens, with no official deadline announced.
