Ruto’s removal of vetting for ID issuance a step toward equality

For decades, the vetting process has been a source of frustration and marginalisation for communities such as the Somali, Nubian, Arab, and Asian Kenyans.

These groups were required to undergo rigorous scrutiny, including providing extensive documentation such as birth certificates of parents and grandparents, to prove their Kenyan citizenship. This process, introduced in the 1990s on national security concerns, has been widely criticised as discriminatory and exclusionary.

As President Ruto noted during his northern Kenya tour, the policy “has been discriminatory to individuals from certain religions and regions”.

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The implications of this change are profound. National IDs are more than just identification documents; they are gateways to essential services, including education, healthcare, and employment. Without them, individuals are effectively rendered invisible in the eyes of the state.

The vetting process had created a bureaucratic bottleneck, leaving many young Kenyans unable to access these basic rights. By removing this barrier, President Ruto’s administration is not only streamlining the ID application process but also affirming the dignity and equality of all citizens.

This move also signals a shift in Kenya’s approach to national security. While the vetting process was initially justified as a measure to prevent fraud and ensure national security, it often served to alienate and stigmatise entire communities.

President Ruto has assured that the government will remain vigilant on security matters, but he emphasised that “security should not be a basis for discriminating against any section of our society”. This balanced approach acknowledges the importance of security while rejecting policies that disproportionately target specific groups.

As the government moves forward, this policy serves as a reminder that true progress lies in recognising and upholding the dignity of every citizen.

Moreover, the abolition of vetting aligns with Kenya’s constitutional commitment to equality and non-discrimination. The 2010 Constitution enshrines the rights of all citizens to equal treatment, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or region. The vetting process, however, stood in stark contrast to these principles, perpetuating a legacy of exclusion that dates back to colonial-era policies.

By dismantling this system, President Ruto is taking a decisive step toward fulfilling the promise of the Constitution and building a more inclusive nation.

The timing of this announcement is also noteworthy. Coming during Ramadan, a period of reflection and community for Muslims, the decision resonates deeply with the Muslim leaders and communities who have long advocated for this change. It underscores the government’s willingness to listen to marginalised voices and address their grievances.

However, the success of this policy will depend on its implementation. The government must ensure that the new guidelines are communicated effectively and that registration offices are equipped to handle the increased demand for IDs. Furthermore, efforts must be made to address the underlying prejudices that have fueled discriminatory practices in the past.

Education and awareness campaigns can play a crucial role in fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.

In conclusion, President Ruto’s decision to abolish the vetting process for national IDs is a landmark move toward equality and inclusivity in Kenya.

It rectifies a long-standing injustice, reaffirms the rights of marginalized communities, and sets a precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues.

The writer is a communication specialist and a former editor at Africa Review.