Mandera South Member of Parliament Hon. Abdul Haro Kore has issued a strong public directive warning against the illegal collection of money from residents during the ongoing nationwide National Identity Card registration exercise, insisting that the process is fully funded by the government and must remain free of charge.
The legislator expressed concern over reports that vulnerable and low-income residents in Mandera South Constituency are being denied access to registration after being asked to pay unauthorized fees by rogue public officers at the grassroots level. He described the practice as unlawful and a violation of government policy, urging wananchi not to part with any money in exchange for registration services.
Hon. Kore emphasized that both the registration process and the verification of supporting documents, including birth certificates, are completely free. He further reminded residents that the previously used vetting committees have been abolished, meaning no applicant should be subjected to discriminatory vetting or asked to pay to have their status cleared.
The MP warned that no citizen should be charged under the guise of “fuel money,” “lunch allowances,” or “printing fees,” stressing that such demands amount to corruption and economic sabotage. He cautioned that any Chief, Assistant Chief, registration clerk, or other public officer found soliciting or receiving bribes would face the full force of the law.
Hon. Kore also reaffirmed that no Kenyan should be turned away, delayed, or denied their constitutional right to obtain a National Identity Card because of an inability or refusal to pay illegal charges. He urged residents to remain vigilant and immediately report any public official demanding money to the nearest Deputy County Commissioner’s office, Assistant County Commissioner’s office, or directly to his constituency office so that swift action can be taken.
The lawmaker reiterated his commitment to protecting the rights of Mandera South residents and ensuring that every eligible Kenyan can access identification documents without intimidation, discrimination, or exploitation.