The government is exploring ways to increase the number of polling stations in overseas countries ahead of the 2027 elections, following mounting pressure from lawmakers.
Members of the Senate Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights have urged the government to increase the number of polling stations abroad to ensure more Kenyans can participate in elections while living overseas.
Led by Committee Chairperson Hillary Sigei, the senators emphasized their commitment to advocating for additional diaspora polling stations to uphold Kenyans' democratic rights.
These discussions took center stage during a meeting between the Senate and the Technical Working Group representing Kenyans in the diaspora, aimed at enhancing electoral access for citizens abroad.
The proposals include setting up new voting centers in major global hubs such as Mumbai/New Delhi, Canberra, Madrid, and Johannesburg.
Currently, Kenya operates 19 polling stations in cities including Washington, D.C., London, and Ottawa.
"We must ensure that every Kenyan abroad can cast their vote without undue hindrance. While the existing 19 stations represent a promising start, the proposed expansions reflect our unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive democracy and empowering our diaspora," Sigei stated.
During the engagement, the government was further challenged to ensure that the logistical and financial challenges that could hamper the process of the expansion of the new polling stations were promptly addressed.
''Our responsibility extends beyond merely expanding the number of polling stations. Stakeholders must rigorously scrutinize the logistical and financial frameworks required to establish and maintain these new centers efficiently in the identified cities,'' Senator Veronica Maina urged.
On their part, Kenyans living in the diaspora led by their sub-committee chairperson for the United Kingdom Martin Koyabe, urged the government to hasten the process of establishing well-equipped polling centers in major cities.
