NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has called on an estimated 1.5 million eligible residents in Western Kenya who hold national identity cards but are yet to register as voters to do so, saying voter registration will be critical in shaping future elections.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, while hosting AFC Leopards Sports Club following the team’s second-place finish in the FKF Premier League, the President challenged leaders from the region to spearhead a voter registration drive once the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) opens the exercise.
“There are 1.5 million people in Western who have ID cards but do not have voters’ cards,” Ruto said.
In a light-hearted remark that drew laughter from those in attendance, the President joked that many of the unregistered youth spend their time in shopping centres instead of preparing to participate in the country’s democratic process.
Ruto revealed that he had already instructed political leaders from the region to mobilise all eligible residents to register as voters, stressing that numbers at the ballot remain the deciding factor in any presidential contest.
“I have spoken to all your leaders and told them that this time everyone must register as a voter because you cannot become President without votes,” he said.
The Head of State assured supporters that discussions on future political strategy would come later, insisting that the immediate priority should be ensuring every eligible Kenyan acquires a voter’s card.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity as leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the next General Election.
Beyond politics, Ruto reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding investment in the sports sector, describing it as a key pillar for job creation and economic growth.
The President said the government is constructing 32 stadiums across the country to nurture sporting talent while creating employment opportunities for young people.
According to Ruto, the new facilities will serve as multi-purpose economic hubs equipped with meeting spaces, studios, restaurants and gyms to support both sports and the creative industry.
“We are scaling up investment in the sports sector to unlock immense economic potential, transforming it into an industry that creates jobs, builds wealth and strengthens Kenya’s global influence,” he said.
He maintained that investing in young people remains one of his administration’s top priorities, arguing that empowering youth through sports will have long-term economic benefits.
Ruto also congratulated AFC Leopards for finishing second in the FKF Premier League, pledging continued government support to strengthen sports infrastructure and help Kenyan clubs and athletes compete successfully on regional and international stages.