The State Department of Immigration and Citizen Services under the Ministry of Interior, on Tuesday, June 6, explained the ongoing delay in passport processing.
According to the department, the delay was due to the breakdown of a printing machine and the disruption in the supply of essential materials.
It, however, urged Kenyans to be patient as the issue was being resolved.
"Our staff are working round the clock to reinstall normal services and to clear the backlog of pending passport applications as soon as possible," read part of the notice, a statement applicants are now accustomed to.
"We regret the inconveniences caused and take this opportunity to convey our sincere apologies to the applicants and to anyone else affected by the delay," read the statement in parts.
Furthermore, Kenyans seeking urgent passports were reminded to contact the immigration department with documentary proof of urgency on the official channels.
However, the announcement was contrary to the reassurance of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, who vowed to ensure the machines were fixed within seven days.
On Thursday, June 1, Kindiki promised to clear the backlog.
"We will make sure that once the printer is fixed, all new passport applications will be received in seven working days while those in emergency need of the document will receive them in 48 hours," the CS added.
He underlined that over 42,000 passports were in line for printing.
"I plead for patience from all those seeking services at the Immigration department," Kindiki urged.
Unfortunately, Kenyans were angered by the response from the state arguing that it should offer clear timelines to resolve the issue.
