Diaspora Working Group appears before Defence Committee on Electoral Participation and access to voting for Kenyans in the Diaspora

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 
𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟏𝟏𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations has heard submissions from a Diaspora Working Group, representing Kenyans abroad, seeking to ensure they have access to polling centers to vote in the 2027 general elections. 

In a meeting chaired by Committee Vice Chair, Hon. Bashir Abdullahi, the Committee acknowledged the contributions of the Diaspora, particularly their remittances, which reached Kshs 662 billion in 2024.

The Diaspora Working Group on Electoral Participation urged the Defence Committee to increase funding to the State Department for Diaspora Affairs to facilitate voter registration, mobile consular services, and additional polling centers. “With increased funding, the State Department can establish mobile consulates and polling stations, enabling Kenyans abroad to exercise their constitutional right to vote,” noted Ms Mercy Kamanja (Scotland/UK).

The Group led by Mr Danson Mukile (USA) also said they are introducing amendments to the Elections Act to expand voting rights by increasing polling centers abroad ahead of the 2027 elections.

Committee Vice Chair, Hon. Bashir Abdullahi lauded the contribution of the Kenyan Diaspora, particularly their significant economic impact through remittances, which stood at Ksh 662 billion last year. “You contribute so much to this country through your remittances,” he said.

The Diaspora Working Group, comprising representatives from countries including USA, UK, Scotland, Belgium, Germany, China, Finland, and Saudi Arabia said, “We have been in existence for more than a year and a half, advocating for amendments to the Elections Act to enable Kenyans in the Diaspora to vote. We want to start the process early to ensure full participation in the 2027 elections,” Dr Robert Chiuri (USA) stated.

Committee Members present at the meeting expressed support for expanding Diaspora voting rights.

Hon. Kwenya Thuku stressed the principle of fair representation. “There cannot be taxation without representation. It is enshrined in the Constitution. We need to do more to support the Diaspora’s right to vote, increase polling centers, and enhance mobile consular services.”

Hon. Memusi Kanchory raised concerns about the financial constraints facing the country but acknowledged the importance of civic education. “This team is asking us to make voting more accessible. However, we currently lack IEBC commissioners, and the country is facing a financial crunch. How do we leverage technology in developed countries to enhance civic education and voter participation?”

Hon. Fred Ikana emphasized the need to integrate technology into the voting process. “We need to find ways to harness technology so that the Diaspora can exercise their democratic rights. Voting should not be limited to the presidential election but extended to other elective positions. How do we ensure the Diaspora has a voice on critical policies?”

Hon. Yusuf Hassan called for a stronger representation model for Kenyans abroad. “I support the right to vote for the Diaspora. I will argue your case in Parliament. You, as Diasporans, are an economic superpower in this country. Demand a bigger voice and more representation. Look at the Philippines—they have a dedicated ministry for their Diaspora, special passports, tax exemptions, and political representation. Kenyans abroad should demand a greater voice.”

In their submissions, the Diaspora Working Group 

outlined key reasons cited for expanding polling stations including upholding the constitutional right for Kenyans abroad to vote, enhancing Diaspora participation in Kenya’s political and governance processes and improving service delivery for Diasporans, especially during elections.

Hon. Bashir Abdullahi assured the Diaspora representatives that the Committee is working closely with the State Department for Foreign Affairs to address gaps in voter access. “We are all in agreement that every Kenyan has the right to vote, whether in the country or abroad. The key question is how practical it is. As a Committee, we are reviewing our missions and considering introducing Honorary Consuls in strategic locations to bridge the existing gaps, as is the case in other countries.”