Nasteh F. Buraze lauds President Ruto for scrapping extra ID vetting, says youth participation is key to strengthening North Eastern Kenya’s voice in national affairs.
ASAL POST | YOUTH | GARISSA | July 17, 2026
GARISSA – Garissa County Youth Chairperson Nasteh F. Buraze has urged young people across Garissa County and the wider North Eastern Kenya region to obtain National Identity Cards (National IDs) and register as voters, saying civic participation is essential for ensuring the region has a stronger voice in leadership, governance and national development.
In a statement, Buraze said acquiring a National ID and registering as a voter are the first steps towards active citizenship, noting that they empower young people to participate in democratic processes and influence decisions that affect their communities.
“Our future depends on the choices we make today. If we aspire to have a stronger voice in leadership, development and the decisions that shape our communities, then we must first take responsibility as active citizens,” he said.
Youth Urged to Take Advantage of Easier Access to National IDs
Buraze encouraged all young people who have attained the age of 18 years to apply for National Identity Cards without delay and prepare to register as voters once the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) announces the next voter registration exercise. He said every eligible youth who obtains a National ID and joins the voters’ register strengthens the collective voice of Garissa and the wider North Eastern region.
The youth leader noted that the process of acquiring National Identity Cards has become more accessible following recent government reforms, making it easier for eligible applicants to obtain the document. According to Buraze, young people should seize the opportunity and ensure no eligible youth is left behind.
Buraze Commends President Ruto for Removing Extra Vetting
Buraze welcomed President William Ruto’s decision to abolish the extra vetting process previously required for National Identity Card applicants from North Eastern Kenya, describing the move as a major milestone in promoting equality and improving access to government services. He said the policy change removed a long-standing barrier that had prevented many eligible young people from obtaining identification documents in good time.
“The removal of extra vetting by President William Samoei Ruto in the issuance of National Identity Cards marked a significant step towards ensuring equal treatment for all Kenyans. For the people of North Eastern Kenya, it lifted a long-standing barrier and reaffirmed their right to access government services without unnecessary hurdles,” Buraze said.
He added that eligible applicants can now visit their nearest National Government administrative office with the required documents and begin the application process without facing the challenges that existed in the past.
Population Must Translate Into Political Influence
Buraze observed that North Eastern Kenya has one of the youngest populations in the country but continues to lag behind in civic participation. He said the region’s demographic strength can only translate into political influence if more eligible citizens obtain National IDs and register as voters.
“Our numbers alone do not translate into influence. They only matter when they are reflected in the register of voters,” he said.
He noted that meaningful participation in elections would strengthen the region’s voice on issues such as education, employment, healthcare, infrastructure, security and equitable allocation of public resources.
Appeal to Parents and Community Leaders
Buraze also appealed to parents, elders, teachers, religious leaders and other community leaders to encourage eligible youth to acquire National Identity Cards and register as voters. He emphasized that the initiative should not be viewed through a political lens but as an important civic responsibility that will empower future generations.
“This is not about political affiliation. It is about responsible citizenship and ensuring that our region fully realizes its democratic potential,” he said. He concluded by urging young people to embrace civic responsibility and actively participate in shaping the future of Garissa and North Eastern Kenya.
“Let every eligible young person obtain a National Identity Card. Let every eligible young person register as a voter. Let every voice count.”
Buraze said the future of the region will not be determined solely by its youthful population, but by the willingness of its people to participate in democratic processes and contribute to the country’s development.
