This archive report was first published on 31 October 2021.
With just days to go before the IEBC mass registration exercise closes on November 2, 2021, a paltry 750,000 people have been registered as new voters countrywide, out of a projected 8 million.
According to a survey at IEBC registration centres, little or no activity was observed as the youth kept off, with IEBC clerks sitting idle, some busy on their phones or playing games.
IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati blames voter apathy for the slow pace in registration, but many warn he may be in for a long disappointing wait as frustrated jobless youth appear to have decided enough is enough.
As the country prepares for the August 2022 general elections, the low voter registration turnout has alarmed Deputy President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga, who are banking on a critical block of support from young Kenyans.
Both presidential front-runners have made promises to the youth, with DP Ruto dangling the 'hustler' gospel and Raila Odinga promising Ksh. 6,000 to unemployed young people each month if elected president.
However, the youth do not seem to be buying into these promises, with many saying it's the usual 'lies' immediately forgotten once the leaders assume office.
