In a move that has ignited a national debate, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has openly criticized President William Ruto’s recent directive to abolish the vetting process for issuing national identification cards in border counties.
Natembeya, drawing on his extensive background in security, warns that this policy shift could have dire consequences for national security.
Speaking at the final send off of late IEBC boss Wafula Chebukati on Saturday, Natembeya argued that eliminating the vetting process could open the floodgates for individuals with malicious intent to acquire Kenyan identification documents.
“This directive has serious security implications,” Natembeya stated. “If implemented recklessly, we may reach a point where even an MCA (Member of County Assembly) is elected from outlawed groups.”
The governor further elaborated on the potential risks, suggesting that the policy could enable foreign radicals to infiltrate the country, recruit local youth, and escalate terrorist activities.
“When vetting was absent, terrorism was rampant in the country,” he recalled. “Foreign radicals infiltrated Kenya, recruited local youth, and spread terror. If we now allow them to easily obtain IDs, they will exploit this opportunity and intensify acts of terrorism. We must revisit this decision to prevent such threats.”
In response to Natembeya’s assertions, President Ruto has stood by his decision, labeling the previous vetting process as discriminatory and unconstitutional.
“We cannot continue with a system that divides Kenyans into two segments while getting identification cards,” the President asserted. “This is undemocratic, unconstitutional, and illegal.”
The President emphasized that the abolition of the vetting process is a step toward ensuring equal treatment for all citizens, irrespective of their geographic location or ethnic background. He dismissed concerns about potential security threats, arguing that the government’s security apparatus is robust enough to handle any challenges that may arise.
The policy change has elicited mixed reactions from various political leaders and stakeholders. Members of Parliament from the North Eastern region have lauded the President’s directive, describing the previous vetting process as “one of the most undignified experiences” for their constituents. Wajir South MP Mohammed Adow remarked, “What the President has done is remove an unconstitutional practice. The vetting process is one of the most undignified experiences for the people from the North Eastern.”
Conversely, some leaders have echoed Natembeya’s concerns, urging the government to reconsider the policy in light of potential security risks. They argue that while the vetting process had its flaws, it served as a crucial filter against the infiltration of criminal elements. “Instead of removing ID vetting, let’s revisit and streamline the process,” one leader suggested.
“Vetting does not deny Kenyans IDs; it prevents non-Kenyans from obtaining them illegally.”
The crux of the debate centers on finding a balance between safeguarding national security and upholding the constitutional rights of all citizens. Governor Natembeya acknowledges the need for inclusivity but insists that security considerations should not be overlooked.
“This is not about profiling any community,” he clarified. “Even people from Uganda are here, and they even join the forces. A simple document, a small document, has serious implications. The President was not very well advised.”
As the discourse unfolds, it is evident that the government faces the intricate task of ensuring that the issuance of national identification cards is both inclusive and secure. The challenge lies in implementing a system that respects the dignity and rights of all citizens while effectively mitigating potential security threats.
