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| Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu |
By John Kariuki
The Diaspora Technical Working Group (TWG) held a crucial meeting today with Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu to deliberate on proposed electoral legislative reforms aimed at strengthening the participation of Kenyans in the diaspora in national democratic processes.
The discussion was part of ongoing efforts to enhance the role of the diaspora in governance, ensuring that their voices and contributions are effectively recognized in Kenya’s political landscape. The proposed reforms focus on expanding voter registration, improving access to polling stations abroad, and addressing legislative gaps that have historically limited the involvement of Kenyans living outside the country.
In recent weeks, the TWG has engaged key stakeholders, including representatives from political parties, legislative bodies, government agencies, and civil society organizations, to gather insights and recommendations on how best to integrate the diaspora into Kenya’s democratic framework. These consultations have emphasized the need for policy adjustments that remove barriers to electoral participation while safeguarding the integrity of the voting process.
During the discussions, PS Njogu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to implement meaningful reforms. She underscored the State Department’s dedication to mainstreaming the diaspora into Kenya’s governance structures, ensuring they are not just seen as contributors to economic development but also as active participants in shaping the country’s leadership and policies.
She further noted that strengthening diaspora engagement in democratic processes aligns with Kenya’s broader vision of inclusivity, reinforcing the importance of constitutional rights and representation for all citizens, regardless of their geographical location.
The TWG expressed optimism that the government will take decisive steps to implement the proposed changes, acknowledging the diaspora as a vital constituency that plays a key role in national progress. The discussions also highlighted the need for continuous engagement and structured mechanisms to ensure that the diaspora remains actively involved in decision-making processes at home.
This meeting marked a significant step forward in advancing diaspora rights and participation, with both parties committing to sustained dialogue and actionable solutions to address the existing challenges. As legislative reviews progress, it is expected that these reforms will pave the way for a more inclusive, transparent, and representative electoral system for all Kenyans, including those living abroad.
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