- President Ruto has announced that national ID cards will now be issued for free.
- He warned against any form of discrimination in the process.
- The move comes after public outcry over increased charges for ID replacements.
- This decision aims to ensure equal access to identification documents for all Kenyans.
Ruto Declares Free ID Card Issuance
President William Ruto has declared that all Kenyans will now receive their national identity cards at no cost.
Speaking on the fourth day of his Nairobi tour, the head of state stressed that no Kenyan should be denied an ID or asked to pay for one. He also warned against any form of discrimination in the issuance process.
“We must eliminate any barriers or discrimination when it comes to issuing identity cards. Every Kenyan has a right to an ID,” he stated.
Ruto further emphasized that this decision would ensure fairness and accessibility for all citizens.
“I want to make it clear today, while I am here in Kibra, that identity cards should be issued without any charges,” he announced.
Government Responds to Public Outcry
His announcement follows growing concerns over the high costs associated with acquiring and replacing national IDs.
In November 2023, the government had introduced new charges, raising the replacement fee from Sh100 to Sh1,000. Although the proposed Sh1,000 fee for first-time applicants was later reduced, new applicants were still required to pay Sh300, a decision that sparked criticism from civil rights groups and leaders.
By scrapping these fees, the government is reversing a policy that had made it difficult for many Kenyans, especially those from marginalized communities, to access identification documents.
A Return to the Original Policy
Kenya first introduced national identity cards in 1979 to enhance security and streamline citizen identification. Initially, these cards were issued for free, ensuring every Kenyan could obtain one. However, fees were later introduced, making access to this crucial document difficult for many.
President Ruto’s directive marks a major shift that could restore free ID issuance for first-time applicants and ensure that all Kenyans can access essential government services without financial barriers.
