UDA leaders launch mass voter registration drive ahead of 2027 polls

Nairobi South Ward Representative Waithera Chege engages some residents during the sensitisation drive on January 30,2026/EZEKIEL AMING'A 

A section of leaders allied to the ruling UDA party has launched a nationwide campaign aimed at sensitising Kenyans on the importance of mass voter registration ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The initiative, led by nominated Senators Tabitha Mutinda and Hamida Kibwa, alongside Nairobi South Ward Representative Waithera Chege, places special emphasis on the youth, particularly Gen Z, whom the leaders say remain significantly under-registered despite their growing numbers and influence.

Addressing residents in Nairobi South Ward, the leaders cited recent data indicating that a large segment of eligible young voters has yet to register with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). 

They warned that failure by young people to register could limit their ability to shape leadership outcomes in the next election cycle.

“Tumeona data inaonyesha kuwa kuna watu wengi sana wale tunaita Gen Z hawajaregister,” said Chege.

“Hawa vijana lazima wajue kuwa viongozi hachaguliwi kwa maandamano, wanachaguliwa kwa kura.”

The leaders urged the youth to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise, noting that voting, not street protests, remains the constitutionally recognised means of electing leaders of integrity and accountability.

They further called on the IEBC to decentralise and strengthen voter registration efforts by taking services closer to wananchi, particularly in informal settlements and fast-growing urban areas where access has remained a challenge.

“We have asked IEBC to devolve the registration process to where people reside and even invest more resources so that no eligible voter is left out,” Chege said.

While drumming up support for women leadership and increased youth participation in governance, the UDA leaders also expressed confidence that President William Ruto will secure a second term in office in 2027. 

They attributed this optimism to what they described as visible development projects being implemented under the Kenya Kwanza administration.

The ward representative also reaffirmed her loyalty to the ruling party and the President, saying her political mandate is tied to delivering on the promises made to voters.

“I was elected on a UDA party ticket and that is why I am behind President Ruto,” Chege said. 

“It is my duty to ensure that the manifesto we gave to the people is fulfilled. That is why I am still on this journey, to make sure it is implemented to the letter.”

Residents who attended the meeting welcomed the remarks, with many saying there is notable progress in infrastructure, social programs, and economic empowerment initiatives under the current administration.

Several youths in attendance said the sensitisation drive had encouraged them to take voter registration seriously, noting that participation in the electoral process is key to influencing policy and leadership decisions.

The leaders indicated that similar forums will be rolled out across the county as part of a broader strategy to boost voter turnout and civic participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.