Machakos University Students register as Voters in an initiative that seeks to ensure that every student is registered and ready to exercise their democratic right in the upcoming 2027 General Elections. Photo by Virginia Siebella 
By Virginia Siebella.
Machakos University, in collaboration with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), has launched a voter registration drive aimed at students from the university and neighboring colleges. The initiative seeks to ensure that every student is registered and ready to exercise their democratic right in the upcoming 2027 General Elections.
Speaking at the launch, Machakos University Student President, Ashley Chepkoech, emphasized the importance of the exercise, noting that many students often miss out on registration due to busy schedules or the distance to IEBC centers.
“This initiative is meant to give students an opportunity to fulfill their civic duty as Kenyan citizens. By bringing registration closer to them, we are ensuring that they will be part of the change needed in electing good leaders,” she said.
Students from other institutions welcomed the initiative. Dennis Kibui from the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) praised the convenience of registering at Machakos University, saying, “We are united in this idea. It makes it easier for students who would otherwise have to leave college to register.”
Ezekiel Mutua from the Kenya Institute of Social Sciences encouraged his peers to seize the opportunity, describing the exercise as both timely and necessary.
Machakos University officials, including Penta Wambui Wanjohi, urged students to actively participate in the campaign, revealing that all universities and colleges in Machakos County had been contacted to maximize involvement. Johnson Muindi added that the drive was designed to be inclusive.
“This exercise is meant to ensure all students register and become voters regardless of tribe or county of origin. We want everyone to be eligible come 2027,” he said.
IEBC officials confirmed that students would have the freedom to select their preferred polling stations, ensuring they can vote in locations where they feel most comfortable.
The drive reflects a concerted effort to engage young voters and strengthen democratic participation ahead of the next general elections.
