President William Ruto has announced the waiver of national identification card replacement fees to enable all eligible Kenyans to register as voters ahead of the upcoming elections.
The President said the waiver aims to ensure that no citizen is denied the right to vote due to financial constraints. Previously, the replacement fee had been introduced to curb abuse of the service by individuals who frequently lost their IDs after obtaining them for free.
Dr. Ruto noted that the free replacement window will remain in place until after the elections, emphasizing inclusivity in the electoral process.
During his address, the President also spoke about the creation of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, saying it is essential for Kenya to save for the future rather than “eat everything today.” Such a fund, he explained, would help stabilize the economy, grow national wealth, and generate long-term financial returns.
The President further commended Members of Parliament for approving Sessional Paper No. 2 of 2025, paving the way for the privatisation of the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Limited — a move expected to raise KSh130 billion.
Dr. Ruto also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing quality healthcare for all Kenyans. He issued a stern warning to health facilities charging for outpatient services at dispensaries, health centres, and sub-county hospitals, noting that the government already covers these costs.
The President revealed that KSh3.7 billion has been disbursed to pay health insurance premiums for 2.5 million vulnerable Kenyans under the Social Health Authority (SHA).
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi praised the President for championing both Kenyan and African issues at the recent UN General Assembly, while Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor urged youths to register as voters, saying, “You can’t be partyless, voiceless, leaderless, voteless. Register to vote.”
