Nairobi, Kenya. President William Ruto has abolished the mandatory vetting process for residents in Kenya’s northern border counties who apply for national identity cards. The decision marks the end of a policy that has been in place for six decades, primarily affecting communities in regions bordering Somalia.
The vetting process was introduced after the Shifta insurgency in the 1960s. It was designed to verify citizenship and prevent illegal migration from Somalia. However, the policy has long been criticized as discriminatory, with many local residents feeling targeted and unfairly treated.
A Step Toward Equality
President Ruto announced that ending the vetting process is part of his administration’s commitment to fairness and equality. He said the requirement unfairly singled out specific communities, particularly Kenyan Somalis, and created unnecessary obstacles for them to obtain national identification.
We are one country, and all Kenyans deserve equal treatment. No citizen should go through additional vetting just because of where they were born, Ruto stated during a public event.
For years, residents in northeastern Kenya, especially in counties like Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera, have complained about delays and difficulties in obtaining IDs. Many young people in these regions have struggled to access education, employment, and government services due to the lack of identification documents.
Security Concerns
While the decision has been welcomed by many, it has also raised security concerns. Some government officials and security experts warn that removing the vetting process may make it easier for illegal immigrants and potential security threats to obtain Kenyan identification.
Kenya has experienced several terrorist attacks, mostly linked to Al-Shabaab, a militant group based in Somalia. Security officers argue that without vetting, it will be harder to differentiate between genuine citizens and those who may have ties to extremist groups.
A senior security official, who spoke anonymously, said, “Vetting was a safeguard. It ensured that only legitimate citizens got Kenyan IDs. Removing it entirely could pose a serious national security risk.
A Political Move?
Some analysts believe that Ruto’s decision is not just about fairness but also about politics. The president is preparing for the 2027 elections and is likely seeking support from northeastern Kenya, where many residents have felt marginalized for years.
By scrapping the vetting process, Ruto could strengthen his support in these regions. In the last election, he received significant backing from parts of northern Kenya, and this move may help him consolidate that support.
Political commentator John Mwangi noted, Ruto’s is a smart politician. He knows that policies like these can help him gain loyalty from communities that have historically felt excluded.
Mixed Reactions from Leaders
Local leaders in northeastern Kenya have largely welcomed the decision. Many say it is long overdue and will help integrate their communities fully into the national system.
Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi praised the move, saying, “For years, our people have been treated as second-class citizens. This is a great step forward for equality and justice.
However, some opposition leaders have criticized the decision. They argue that while fairness is important, security should not be compromised. Former Interior Minister Fred Matiange expressed concern that the government had not proposed an alternative system to ensure security while addressing discrimination.
What Next?
With the vetting process now abolished, the government is expected to streamline the national identification process. This will involve ensuring that all eligible Kenyans can easily access ID cards without unnecessary delays.
At the same time, security agencies will likely need to adjust their strategies to manage potential risks. Some experts have suggested that instead of vetting, Kenya could strengthen border security and improve intelligence gathering to prevent illegal activities.
The debate over national security and inclusivity is far from over. While many celebrate the end of vetting as a victory for equality, others worry about its long-term implications.
As Kenya moves forward with this new policy, the challenge will be finding a balance between national security and the rights of all citizens.
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