Government tightens ID registration checks after scrapping vetting process

Early this year, President William Ruto issued a proclamation ending the practice of vetting during the issuance of identification documents in all border counties, as part of a broader effort to guarantee equal access to national identification for all Kenyans.

The move, welcomed by some and criticised by others, marked a new era for communities that had long felt discriminated against due to the extra checks required to obtain this vital document.

The government, through the State of National Security Report presented to Parliament by President Ruto, is now implementing new registration guidelines to reflect this change, ensuring compliance and reducing fraud.

As such, it has introduced new measures to strengthen identity verification mechanisms: First, applicants must register in their home counties or permanent places of residence to facilitate community-based verification.

Second, a biological parent or guardian must verify the applicant’s identity by providing a left thumbprint on the application form. This is then certified by local Chiefs or Assistant Chiefs using their biometric signature to enhance accountability and allow tracing in cases of fraudulent registration.

Third, registration officers must submit weekly reports of registered applicants to national security agencies, which review them and flag any concerns, prompting immediate action by Registration of Persons offices and National Government Administration Officials.

“The government has also increased ID card production capacity to process new applications efficiently. This includes expanding printing capabilities, deploying additional personnel to manage the increased workload, and introducing a 24-hour service to expedite processing and production,” the report states.

These measures increase the number of officials accountable if foreigners obtain Kenyan identity cards.

President Ruto announced the abolition of vetting near the end of Ramadan, describing it as discriminatory against certain communities and religions.

“We want every child in Kenya, whether Christian or Muslim and from any part of the country, to have equal opportunities and treatment. Starting early May this year, there will no longer be vetting for people applying for IDs,” President Ruto said.

Previously, vetting required applicants to appear before a panel including registration and security agents from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the Intelligence Service, local chiefs, the Deputy County Commissioner, the registrar (committee secretary), and two community elders. This team grilled applicants before issuing the national identity card, the primary proof of Kenyan nationality.

Following the policy change, such vetting is no longer required.

Although this move aimed to curb the issuance of IDs to foreigners, many legitimate citizens from affected communities experienced delays that cost them access to economic opportunities, delayed school admissions, and fostered feelings of marginalisation.

The directive impacted 20 counties, mostly located along the border.

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