IEBC Misses Voter Registration Target Despite 2.3 Million New Sign-Ups
News Updated: 30 April 2026 16:41 EAT
IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon explains how the registration system works
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has fallen short of its target in the recently concluded Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration (ECVR) exercise, missing the mark by 154,524 voters despite recording millions of new registrations across the country.
IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon announced that at least 2.3 million new voters were registered between March 30 and April 28, 2026. The commission had initially projected to register about 2.5 million voters, making the outcome slightly below expectations.
The 30-day exercise was a critical step in preparations for Kenya’s 2027 General Election, with the commission aiming to significantly expand the national voter roll. IEBC has set an ambitious long-term target of reaching over 28 million registered voters ahead of the polls.
Progress data released during the exercise showed steady growth, with registrations rising sharply in the final week. By April 23, the commission had already recorded more than 1.8 million new voters, reflecting increased public response as the deadline approached.
Regional statistics revealed disparities in turnout, with urban counties such as Nairobi, Kiambu, and Nakuru leading in registrations, while marginalised counties including Lamu, Isiolo, and Samburu lagged behind. The commission attributed the gap to factors such as access challenges and lower awareness levels.
In addition to new registrations, IEBC processed thousands of voter transfers and updates, indicating that many Kenyans also took the opportunity to regularise their voting details ahead of future elections.
Despite missing its target, the commission described the exercise as largely successful, citing increased participation among youth and first-time voters. However, challenges such as delays in issuance of national identity cards and logistical constraints affected the final numbers.
IEBC has now shifted focus to continuous voter registration at constituency offices and Huduma Centres, urging eligible citizens to register. The commission will also begin verification and audit processes to ensure the credibility and accuracy of the voter register before the next electoral cycle.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD