DIASPORANS MAKE HISTORY, BECOMING THE FIRST EVER TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN A KENYAN ELECTION WHILE OUTSIDE AFRICAN SOIL

Registration continues until February 4th in the Kenyan Embassy in Washington DC and consulate offices in NYC and LA. While the process is not perfect, many diaspora voters say they're thankful for the opportunity to register and are looking forward to voting for their favorite presidential candidate

by Maurice O. Ndole

January 29, 2022June 21, 2023

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Kenyans in the diaspora are making history.

So far more than 200 Kenyans have registered to vote in the US, becoming the first ones ever to register as voters in a Kenyan election outside African soil.

Registration is open until Friday, February 4th. Kenyans can register at the Kenyan embassy in Washington DC and the Kenyan consulate offices in New York City, NY, and Los Angeles, CA.

Joyce Ekuam, IEBC Director of voter education, partnerships, and communications said she was honored to be part of facilitating this historic moment for Kenyans in the diaspora. She urged those who haven’t registered to come forward.

“Be part of this historic moment. Register to vote in this very first phase, at least you will have something to tell your grandchildren in your old age. Be a legend today,” Ekuam said.

“Be part of this historic moment. Register to vote in this very first phase, at least you will have something to tell your grandchildren in your old age. Be a legend today,” Joyce Ekuam, IEBC Acting Director of Voter Education, Partnerships and Communications.

Los Angeles Consulate office Charge d’Affaires James Omosa, who led by example bringing his family to be among the first Kenyans to register, thanked those who registered and encouraged more diasporans to show up.

“It is highly appreciated that our Government has given us this opportunity to cast our vote while away from home,” Omosa said. “I call upon those eligible to vote to take advantage of the remaining period to come to the Consulate and register.”

IEBC has extended hours to register and relaxed appointment rules.

“The Consulate is open all days of the week including weekends to receive those coming to register. Although important to book an appointment, Walk-ins are accepted,” Omosa said.

Registration continues until Feb 4th.

This is a developing story, we’ll continue to cover it as we receive more news.

Here are some photos of the history-making Kenyans registering to vote at the Los Angeles Consulate office.

Photos courtesy of Chargé d’affaires James Omosa Rwoti, Kenyan Consulate Los Angeles

IEBC Officers register Diasporans to vote in LA

Mr. James Omosa, Charge d'Affaires at the Kenya Consulate in Los Angeles Transfering his polling Centre from Kenya to Los Angeles. — Mr. James Omosa, Charge d’Affaires at the Kenya Consulate in Los Angeles Transfering his polling Centre from Kenya to Los Angeles.

Kenyans in New York pose for a photo after registering to vote at the NYC consulate office

Voters in the U.S. can register by appearing in person in three locations during business hours and on weekends. Walk-ins are accepted. Click here to access IEBC website to book an appointment.

Key Requirements to Register as a voter According to IEBC Website

A Kenyan citizen residing outside Kenya who applies for registration as a voter must;