President Ruto ends ID vetting in Northeastern Kenya, sparking praise for equity and criticism over security concerns.
WAJIR, KENYA — President William Ruto has ended the controversial vetting of national ID cards for residents of Northeastern Kenya, calling it unfair and discriminatory.
Ruto made the announcement on February 5, 2025, during a public address at Orahey Grounds in Wajir Town.
“No Kenyan should go through extra hurdles to prove they belong. The vetting process ends today,” he declared to loud applause.
Why Vetting Was a Problem
For years, residents in Wajir, Mandera, and Garissa faced a separate vetting process to get national ID cards. The policy was introduced due to security concerns near the Somali border.
However, critics say the process targeted ethnic Somalis, causing delays in voting, jobs, business registration, and other basic rights.
Praise from the Region
Leaders and civil rights groups welcomed the move.
Governance expert Hassan Mohamed said it marks a major step forward.
“This ends years of discrimination. Northeastern residents now feel like full citizens.”
Former Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi added that the change was “long overdue” and called for a fast rollout.
Security Concerns Remain
Some experts worry that removing vetting could pose risks.
Security analyst George Musamali warned the policy change might allow non-citizens to get IDs.
“The vetting wasn’t punishment. It was a security filter,” he said.
Former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i suggested the timing could be political, with the 2027 elections approaching.
“We must ensure this decision isn’t just about winning votes.”
A Strategic Move?
Analysts say the change fits within Ruto’s Bottom-Up Economic Agenda, which promotes inclusion and fairness.
Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani, a political analyst, said it could boost Ruto’s popularity in the region.
“It’s a smart political and social move—but the government must guarantee it won’t weaken national security.”
What Happens Next?
The government is expected to publish new rules for ID registration soon. Civil society groups and security agencies will watch closely to see how the change plays out.
While debate continues, one thing is clear: the end of vetting is a big win for thousands of Kenyans who can now access their national IDs with fewer barriers.
