As Kenya’s 2027 General Election draws near, concerns over low voter registration have sparked debate about whether young people are prepared to participate in the election. While the right to vote is guaranteed under Article 38 of the Constitution of Kenya, low voter registration among the youth raises questions about their influence on the outcome of the next election.

Speaking at various political events across Kenya, President William Ruto has on many occasions encouraged young people to register as voters so they can take part in the forthcoming General Election.

Despite voter registration advocacy efforts by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), civil society groups, politicians, the media, and other stakeholders, much remains to be done to achieve the desired results.

While voter registration is still underway at the constituency level, the enhanced voter registration exercise conducted across 57 Huduma Centres and 30,619 registration centres nationwide failed to meet expectations.

Out of the 2.3 million new voters targeted during the 30-day continuous voter registration exercise conducted between March 30 and April 28, 2026, the IEBC fell short of its target by 154,524 voters.

Speaking at State House in Nairobi during an event where he hosted AFC Leopards Sports Club, President William Ruto urged leaders from Kenya’s Western region to ensure every eligible voter is registered. The President said he had tasked leaders from the region with mobilizing residents to register ahead of the next voter registration exercise.

“There are 1.5 million identity card holders in Western Kenya without voter cards,” the President said.

The President’s remarks echo similar concerns raised by civil society groups and political leaders across Kenya. The growing concern raises questions about whether enough is being done to educate and encourage young people to register and participate in the country’s electoral process.