Shollei Intensifies Voter Registration Drive Across Uasin Gishu

Uasin Gishu Woman Representative and National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss Shollei has stepped up efforts to enhance voter registration in the county through a widespread sensitization campaign targeting Kesses and Kapseret sub-counties.

The exercise, led by Shollei and her team, covered key areas including Outspan, Cheptiret Centre, Toror, and Cherus in Tarakwa Ward, as well as Kabongwa in Megun and Tuiyo in Kapseret/Simat Ward. The initiative brought together residents, local leaders, youth groups, and community mobilizers in a bid to raise awareness on the importance of registering as voters.

Addressing residents during the engagements, Shollei underscored the critical role voter registration plays in strengthening democracy, noting that participation in elections begins with being included in the voters’ register. She emphasized that citizens have both a right and a responsibility to take part in shaping the country’s leadership through the ballot.

“This exercise is about empowering wananchi to take charge of their future. When you register as a voter, you secure your place in determining the direction of this country,” she said.

The sensitization forums focused on educating residents about the voter registration process, requirements, and the locations of registration centres run by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Residents were also encouraged to mobilize friends, family members, and neighbors who are eligible but not yet registered.

The campaign recorded a positive response, with many residents turning up at nearby registration centres following the sensitization efforts. Local administrators and community leaders praised the initiative, noting that direct engagement at the grassroots level has proven effective in addressing misconceptions and increasing participation.

Shollei pointed out that some eligible voters, particularly young people and first-time voters, often delay or overlook registration due to lack of information or awareness. She stressed the need for continued civic education to bridge this gap and ensure inclusivity in the electoral process.

“We must ensure that no one is left behind, especially our youth who form a significant portion of the population. Their voices matter, and they must be part of the decision-making process,” she added.

She further highlighted that accessible voter registration is key to credible and representative elections, urging authorities to maintain efficient and well-equipped registration centres to accommodate the growing number of applicants.

Residents who participated in the exercise expressed appreciation for the outreach, saying it brought services closer to them and clarified the importance of voter registration. Many acknowledged that the initiative motivated them to take immediate action and register.

The ongoing voter registration drive comes amid broader national efforts to update and expand the voters’ register in preparation for future electoral processes. Leaders across the political divide have continued to call on Kenyans to actively participate, emphasizing that democracy thrives when citizens are fully engaged.

Shollei concluded the exercise with a strong appeal to all eligible Kenyans to visit the nearest IEBC registration centre without delay and ensure they are included in the Register of Voters.

Her message echoed a familiar civic call: “Kura Yako, Sauti Yako”—a reminder that every vote carries the power to shape the nation’s future.