Northern Kenya leaders praise Ruto’s decision to abolish ID vetting

Leaders drawn from North Eastern Kenya have lauded the move by President William Ruto to abolish vetting process for individuals seeking identification documents in the region.

Led by Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, the leaders noted that the move represents a significant step toward inclusivity and addressing the historical injustices faced by communities in the area.

Duale remarked that for years, border communities, particularly in the Northeastern counties, have encountered systemic challenges in obtaining national identification documents.

“The vetting process, marred by excessive scrutiny and additional documentation demands, has delayed access and fostered discrimination, undermining the fundamental rights of these Kenyans,” he said following Ruto’s signing of the Presidential Decree that abolishes the decades-old practice.

“This long-overdue reform is a victory for inclusivity and national cohesion, ensuring that every Kenyan, regardless of their place of birth, enjoys equal access to citizenship rights without unnecessary barriers,” he added.

According to Duale, Wednesday’s “landmark move” is widely celebrated, especially among marginalized border communities, where generations have struggled with documentation challenges. He noted that the situation has disadvantaged the locals in education, employment and economic participation.

“By removing this systemic hurdle, the President has restored the dignity of the disenfranchised and reaffirmed his commitment to a just and equitable society where every Kenyan can fully partake in the nation’s development,” he stated.

President Ruto indicated that his decision is part of a larger strategy by his administration to promote national unity and development in marginalized areas.