Free ID Card Directive Still in Force Despite Continued Charges, Agency Confirms
By Chemtai Kirui, NAIROBI,
The presidential directive waiving fees for national identity card (ID) issuance remains in effect, the government’s service agency confirmed Wednesday, amid confusion at service centres where some applicants are still being charged.
Huduma Kenya, which oversees ID applications and replacement services, issued a statement saying the waiver remains valid and that the agency has “NOT contradicted it in any way.”
The clarification comes after reports of Kenyans being asked to pay KSh 1,000 or more during replacements, prompting concern and demands for clarity.
President William Ruto has repeatedly confirmed that no eligible Kenyan should pay for replacing an ID card ahead of the 2027 general election, to ensure full participation in electoral processes.
However, Huduma Kenya acknowledged that the full implementation of the “free issuance” directive is still under way, citing the need for internal system updates and administrative adjustments at its centres nationwide.
“Its implementation is underway and we urge for your patience,” the statement read, adding that the rollout is being designed to ensure “seamless and sustainable service delivery.”
Many applicants, especially those replacing lost or damaged cards, have reported that they were still asked to pay KSh 1,000 or more — a fee that contradicts the presidential statement but is being enforced due to the transitional status of the policy.
The confusion has real implications for everyday Kenyans: Those needing to replace their IDs — crucial for voting, accessing services, and formal employment — face uncertainty about fees. The lack of clarity at service centres may delay their access.
Huduma Kenya states all centres remain operational and committed to serving citizens during the transition.
What’s next
The next procedural step would be for the Ministry of Interior to publish an official gazette notice or directive outlining the waiver’s terms and scope — a move expected to resolve the confusion between policy and practice.
In the meantime, Huduma Kenya and affiliated centres are maintaining normal operations as the fee waiver is gradually implemented.
