Take voter registration seriously, Coast, North Eastern leaders tell Kenyans
They emphasised the importance of civic engagement, arguing that political representation begins with voter registration and active participation in national affairs.
Leaders from the Coast and North Eastern Kenya have urged Kenyans to take voter registration seriously, warning that failure to participate could weaken their bargaining power in national decision-making.
They emphasised that beyond party affiliations, securing numbers at the ballot is the surest way to influence government policies and leadership.
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The call was made during the 3rd Graduation Ceremony at the Abbas Islamic Centre in Makupa, Mombasa County, where several leaders from north eastern Kenya, led by Environment CS Aden Duale alongside their Coast counterparts, led by Mining & Blue Economy CS Hassan Ali Joho presided over the event.
The occasion celebrated students at various levels of Islamic studies, recognising their dedication and mastery of the subjects.
The leaders used the platform to urge communities to register to vote in large numbers, stating that the current administration of President William Ruto does not discriminate against Kenyans.
Learners who graduated in various levels of Islamic studies at the 3rd Graduation Ceremony at the Abbas Islamic Centre in Makupa. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
Inclusive government
They maintained that Ruto’s government has been more inclusive than previous regimes and vowed to rally support for his re-election, positioning their regions for greater political influence.
Others at the event included Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, MPs Yakub Adow (Bura) and Dekow Barrow (Garissa Township) and Nominated MP Abdisirat Khalif.
They emphasised the importance of civic engagement, arguing that political representation begins with voter registration and active participation in national affairs.
Speaking at the event, CS Duale dismissed critics of President Ruto’s administration, arguing that the government is treating all Kenyans fairly.
“When I was a Member of Parliament, I strongly defended every law… Joho and I are in Cabinet, and nothing that would negatively affect our communities would pass,” Duale said, adding that under Ruto’s leadership, no region is being sidelined.
“The only mistake Ruto has made is saying that all Kenyans young and old, from all ethnicities and religions should be treated equally. That is the only crime he has committed,” he remarked, urging Kenyans to support the President’s vision of inclusivity.
National IDs
Duale also encouraged citizens to take advantage of the government’s efforts to ensure every eligible Kenyan has an ID.
“Do not be afraid, go register and get your ID cards,” he said, noting that in regions like Mombasa and Garissa, residents have in the past struggled to acquire identification documents.
Joho echoed Duale’s sentiments, emphasising the need for unity in securing political influence.
“We have an opportunity to have a Muslim president if we unite, so let’s make sure that all Muslims take IDs and vote as a bloc in 2027. Let’s vote for the President to continue for the next five years, then we shall have an opportunity later on to have a Muslim president,” Joho said.
On his part, Barrow urged leaders to give political direction to their communities.
“This country is driven by politics. You two (Duale and Joho) should lead us and give us direction. Let’s register as many people as possible in northern Kenya, and we are ready for this task,” he said.
He said voter mobilisation would ensure their communities have a say in future negotiations, including potential presidential bids in 2032.
Bura MP Yakub Adow also stressed the significance of numbers in politics.
“We were told we do not have the numbers but in the 2027 ballot we will make a difference. Let us prioritise our community’s interests within Ruto’s government so that we can actively contribute to building the administration,” he said.
National politics
Governor Abdulswamad lauded the role of leaders like Duale and Joho in guiding national politics. He assured residents that his administration would support efforts to ensure every eligible citizen is documented and politically active.
Abdulswamad announced plans to ensure Mombasa residents acquire IDs and birth certificates without hurdles.
“If the national government is waiving fees, we will find a way to pay for our people’s abstract documents to move this agenda forward,” he stated.
He also highlighted the county’s commitment to supporting Islamic education, promising financial backing for madrassas.
“As we prepare for the next financial year, our madrassas will have a structured plan for continued development,” he said.
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