As the 30 day mass voter registration exercise officially launched yesterday, Kisumu County Woman Representative aspirant Penina Odoro has raised the alarm over what she terms “alarmingly low” public awareness.
Odoro is now calling on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to immediately roll out an aggressive civic education campaign across the county to ensure the 2027 General Election is truly representative
Speaking to the press in Kisumu, Odoro described the month long exercise as a defining moment for the region’s political future.
She expressed particular concern for young people and first time voters, warning that a lack of information could lead to mass disenfranchisement.
“The registration window is narrow. Without adequate information, many of our people especially the youth may not fully grasp that this is their only chance to shape the leadership of this country,” Odoro stated.
She issued a direct appeal to those who have recently acquired national identification cards, urging them to treat registration not as a routine chore, but as a powerful tool for resource distribution and governance.
Beyond the IEBC’s responsibilities, the aspirant challenged local leadership to move beyond rhetoric and provide practical support for vulnerable populations.
Odoro highlighted the physical and financial barriers that often prevent the elderly and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) from reaching registration centers.
Odoro’s Proposed Action Plan for Leaders,Logistical Support, Organizing transport for those in remote areas.
The remarks come against a backdrop of historical voter apathy, particularly among the Gen Z and Millennial demographics in previous election cycles.
Odoro maintained that the only way to reverse this trend is through a well informed and fully registered electorate.
As the clock ticks on the 30-day window, the pressure is mounting on both the IEBC and Kisumu’s political elite to ensure the process is as inclusive and accessible as possible.
For Odoro, the credibility of the 2027 polls begins not on election day, but at the registration desk.
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