Hon. Abdul Haro Kore Raises Alarm Over ID Delays in Northern Kenya

The Member of Parliament for Mandera South, Abdul Haro Kore, has formally raised concern in Parliament over persistent delays in the processing and issuance of national identification cards in Northern Kenya, warning that the situation threatens both constitutional rights and socio-economic inclusion.

Invoking Standing Order 44(2)(c), Hon. Kore sought a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, pressing for urgent clarification and action on the matter. His intervention underscores growing unease over what many leaders from the region have described as systemic barriers to accessing essential government services.

At the heart of his concern is the principle of equity. Hon. Kore emphasized that the continued delay in issuing ID cards disproportionately affects citizens in Northern Kenya, effectively locking them out of opportunities that are readily available to other Kenyans.

“This delay raises serious concerns regarding equitable access to government services,” he noted, pointing to the broader implications for national cohesion and fairness.

The issue is particularly pressing in light of the ongoing nationwide voter registration exercise being conducted by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. Without valid identification documents, thousands of eligible young people in the region risk being excluded from the democratic process.

Hon. Kore warned that such disenfranchisement undermines fundamental political rights, including the right to vote, and could have long-term consequences for representation and participation in governance.

Beyond the electoral context, the MP highlighted the far-reaching socio-economic impact of lacking identification. National ID cards are a gateway to a wide range of essential services, including employment opportunities, access to education, financial inclusion, and government programmes.

“The delay significantly limits access to employment, education, financial services, and other socio-economic opportunities,” he stated, stressing that the issue extends beyond administrative inefficiency to matters of dignity and equal citizenship.

His remarks have drawn attention to longstanding challenges in civil registration systems in parts of Northern Kenya, where logistical constraints, security concerns, and bureaucratic bottlenecks have often slowed service delivery.

Observers have commended Hon. Kore for his proactive approach in bringing the matter to the floor of the House, noting that such interventions are critical in ensuring accountability and responsive governance. His firm yet measured tone reflects a commitment to advocating for marginalized communities while working within parliamentary frameworks to seek solutions.

The request for a Statement is expected to compel the relevant committee to provide a detailed account of the causes of the delays and outline concrete measures to address them. Stakeholders will be keenly watching for timelines, policy adjustments, and administrative reforms that can expedite the issuance process.

As the country continues to pursue inclusive development and democratic participation, the concerns raised by Hon. Abdul Haro Kore serve as a timely reminder that access to identification is not merely a bureaucratic matter—it is a fundamental right that underpins citizenship, opportunity, and equality.

His intervention reinforces the critical role of Parliament in safeguarding the rights of all Kenyans and ensuring that no region or community is left behind.