Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has stirred debate after calling for a complete overhaul of Kenya’s voter register ahead of future elections.
In his statement, Kaluma argued that the current register should be cleaned up to remove names of deceased and suspected fake voters. He went further to propose a fresh voter registration exercise, suggesting that starting afresh would help restore public confidence in the electoral process and eliminate concerns about rigging.
The legislator also questioned the resistance from some quarters, particularly within the Mt. Kenya region, to what he described as a new strategy by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). His remarks, including the phrase “Mumefikiwa sasa,” have been interpreted by critics as provocative, adding a regional tone to an already sensitive national issue.
Kaluma’s comments come at a time when electoral reforms remain a key topic in Kenya’s political discourse. Calls to audit or overhaul the voter register are not new, especially following contested elections in the past. Supporters of such proposals argue that transparency and accuracy in the voter roll are essential for credible elections, while opponents caution against drastic changes that could disenfranchise legitimate voters or create unnecessary tension.
As the country gradually shifts focus toward the 2027 General Election, discussions around electoral integrity, institutional trust, and inclusivity are likely to intensify, with leaders offering differing views on the best path forward.
