The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission on Wednesday opened a fresh front in its drive to make future elections more accessible, hosting the leadership of the Nairobi Association of the Deaf for what officials described as one of the most candid consultations in recent months.
The meeting, led by IEBC Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat Abdalla, offered commissioners an unfiltered look at the obstacles deaf and visually impaired Kenyans encounter as they try to participate in basic democratic processes—from voter registration to the final vote.
“The Commission appreciates the spirit of this partnership because it helps us understand the real challenges Kenyans and specifically Persons with Disabilities face,” Ms Abdalla said. “Your feedback will help us evaluate our systems and processes to ensure inclusivity.”
Dr Alutalala Mukhwana, who chairs the Voter Education, Partnerships, Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Committee, underscored the Commission’s legal and moral duty to ensure access. He praised the Association’s slogan, “From Silence to Strength,” calling it a reminder of the community’s resilience and its place in the country’s democratic life.
“It is in the interest of our people, it is in the interest of our democracy, and it is demanded by our Constitution,” he said.
Commissioner MaryKaren Sorobit, who heads the Legal Compliance and Political Parties Liaison Committee, warned that disability-related political party nominations must remain credible. She said the Commission will act firmly to prevent abuse of the category.
“While we recognize and advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, we also have a duty to ensure that the category is not abused,” she said. “We will work diligently to ensure that nominations under this category reflect genuine cases.”
Commissioner Ann Nderitu, chair of the Election Operations Committee, noted that disability “is a condition any person can experience at any point in life,” arguing that accessible systems ultimately benefit everyone. “Disability inclusion is not a favour; it is a necessity,” she said.
During the session, representatives of the Deaf Community tabled a set of detailed recommendations: better registration of deaf persons, accessible voter information—including sign language interpretation and simplified materials—deployment of qualified sign language interpreters at polling stations, KSL-trained police officers, and the appointment of Deaf Officers within the IEBC. They also pushed for improved accessibility of electronic voter registration and voting systems.
IEBC Secretary and CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan pointed to progress made ahead of the 2022 General Election, noting a 5.42 percent increase in registered eligible persons with disabilities. He said beginning the consultations early gives the Commission a longer runway to strengthen first-time voter registration and expand voter education before the 2027 polls.
Wednesday’s engagement, commissioners said, was part of a broader effort to reshape Kenya’s electoral systems into spaces where every citizen—regardless of ability—can participate freely, confidently and with dignity.
