Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has distanced himself from allegations surrounding the issuance of Kenyan identification documents to foreign nationals, insisting that robust systems had been established during his tenure to safeguard the integrity of the country’s registration processes.
Matiang’i noted that significant reforms were undertaken while he headed the Interior Ministry to streamline the issuance of national identity cards and passports.
He maintained that the systems put in place had helped curb irregularities and improve accountability in the management of citizen registration documents.
Matiang’i distances himself from ID and Passport scandal, blames current administration. Photo: Courtesy.
The former CS expressed concern over recent allegations that foreigners had been obtaining Kenyan identification documents through fraudulent means, describing the development as a serious threat to national security and the credibility of the country’s official records.
Matiang’i argued that such practices could undermine confidence in Kenyan passports and identity cards both locally and internationally.
He warned that continued irregularities in the issuance of the documents could damage the country’s reputation and lead to increased scrutiny of Kenyan travel documents abroad.
He further claimed that the alleged illegal issuance of identity documents could be linked to attempts to manipulate voter registration and influence the outcome of the 2027 General Election.
According to Matiang’i, criminal networks involved in the scheme could be seeking to create false identities for political purposes.
The Jubilee presidential aspirant said the allegations demonstrated the need for stronger oversight and decisive action against individuals involved in the suspected fraud.
His remarks came in response to claims by Belgut Member of Parliament Nelson Koech, who argued that Matiang’i should take responsibility for the scandal because some of the documents cited in the investigation were allegedly issued during his time at the Interior Ministry.
The controversy follows a media exposé alleging that foreign nationals from neighbouring countries, including Somalia, Ethiopia and Uganda, obtained Kenyan identity cards and passports through irregular channels after paying bribes.
The report claimed that the individuals were able to acquire official documents without undergoing the procedures required under Kenya’s citizenship and registration laws.
Authorities are yet to issue a comprehensive response to the allegations as calls grow for investigations into the claims and accountability for those found culpable.
