TRANS NZOIA, Kenya – Vocal Kiminini Constituency lawmaker Kakai Bissau has backed the registration of Kenyans living in Uganda for National Identification Cards and as voters.
Speaking in Endebess Constituency on Thursday, October 1, while accompanying Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to open the Assistant County Commissioner’s office at Chepchoina, Bissau said it is the democratic right of all Kenyans in the diaspora to be registered.
According to Bissau, the East African Charter allows citizens of member states to move freely within member countries. He urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to register Kenyans living in Uganda.
“In our East African Charter, there is free movement for East Africans within any country. IEBC, all Kenyans in the diaspora; it is their democratic right to be registered as voters and to vote for the leadership of their choice,” Bissau stated.
He explained that the situation arises due to living conditions, where Kenyans at the border move to Uganda, lease farms, and do business for economic freedom. He added that they are entitled to return during the election period and exercise their civic duty.
“This region, unlike their neighbours, has small land parcels. Ugandans have large parcels of land. Our people cross to do business and lease these lands. Once you are a Kenyan living in Uganda or any nearby border county, come and vote. Don’t be afraid. It is your constitutional and democratic right,” he further affirmed.
Bissau echoed remarks made earlier by CS Kipchumba Murkomen, dismissing links to involvement in the issuance of Kenyan IDs to Ugandans and registering them as voters.
Murkomen said the leaders making the allegations have “sensed defeat” and urged them to align themselves with a coalition that is working.
The lawmaker, who is eyeing the Trans Nzoia governorship, urged residents to shun leaders blocking government projects from reaching the county and benefiting residents.
His remarks were directed at county boss George Natembeya, a critic of the Kenya Kwanza Administration. Murkomen described Natembeya’s administration as one practising divisive politics and not championing development or access to government services for the deserving residents of Trans Nzoia.
Bissau highlighted the progress made within the county since joining the government camp, with his constituency currently enjoying road construction in different parts of the town, including the Kiminini–Ndalu road.
The MP accompanied the CS on an inspection of ongoing construction at the Kiminini ASP Modern Market and classrooms for primary and junior learners at Kiminini Comprehensive School.
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