Kenyans in diaspora Seek Own MPs, Senators and Online Voting for 2027

Kenyans living abroad have presented a proposal calling for the creation of dedicated parliamentary seats for the diaspora and the introduction of secure digital voting ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The plan, submitted to Kenya’s High Commissioner to Canada, Carolyne Kamende Daudi, proposes the establishment of about 15 diaspora constituencies aligned to major global regions. Each constituency would elect a Member of the National Assembly and a Senator, giving diaspora communities representation in both chambers of Parliament where legislation and national budgets are decided. 

Supporters argue that dual-chamber representation would ensure diaspora concerns are consistently considered in lawmaking. These concerns include taxation, investment protection, labour rights, access to public services, and reintegration support for returning citizens. Ephraim Mwaura, Executive Chairman of the Kenyan Canadians Association, is among the leading advocates. 

He says the diaspora remains politically marginalised despite its growing economic contribution. Remittances to Kenya reached nearly US$5 billion in 2024, yet, he argues, this financial role has not resulted in meaningful influence within Parliament. He describes the proposal as both a fairness measure and a development strategy, aimed at strengthening national cohesion and Kenya’s international profile.

The proposal suggests that diaspora seats be allocated proportionally, based on population size, remittance levels and regional distribution. Illustrative constituencies include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. While the idea of “County 48” has long symbolised diaspora recognition, organisers reject replicating county governments abroad, citing cost and administrative challenges. Instead, they favour parliamentary representation supported by existing diplomatic missions. 

As an alternative, they suggest continental groupings could be assigned Senate seats if full bicameral representation proves contentious. Clear eligibility criteria are outlined for prospective diaspora candidates. Applicants would need to have lived abroad for at least ten years, reside within the relevant constituency, and hold Kenyan citizenship, with dual nationality allowed. 

Candidates would also be required to show active engagement with both Kenya and their host country, with leadership credentials verified through embassies or High Commissions. The proposal also addresses barriers to diaspora voting. Although the 2010 Constitution guarantees voting rights for citizens abroad, implementation has been limited since overseas voting began in 2013. Voting has largely been restricted to embassies and consulates and, in practice, to the presidential election only. 

In Canada, diaspora voting was introduced in 2022, with polling stations available in just three cities. Many voters were required to travel long distances at their own expense, contributing to low participation. In the 2022 election, fewer than 6,000 diaspora voters cast ballots worldwide, despite estimates that more than one million Kenyans abroad are eligible to vote. To improve access, organisers are calling for digital registration and online voting systems. 

They argue that properly designed platforms, with strong verification and audit safeguards, could increase turnout while lowering costs. Blockchain technology is cited as one option to ensure transparency and secure record keeping. Canada has been proposed as a pilot location due to its large geographic spread and dispersed diaspora population.

Advocates warn that without legislative changes, including amendments to the Elections Act, diaspora participation risks remaining limited in 2027. They acknowledge that the proposal raises legal and political questions, including how diaspora constituencies would be defined and whether Parliament would need to expand or reallocate seats.