Government to Cracks Down on Officials Delaying Passport Issuance

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has announced a crackdown on government officials responsible for delays in passport issuance.

The initiative launched on Friday targets corrupt individuals within the Ministry of Interior and National Administration who impede the timely processing of these crucial documents. Kindiki emphasises zero tolerance for such misconduct, outlining immediate disciplinary action and potential legal prosecution for any officials found guilty. He acknowledges the significant impact these delays have on Kenyans seeking passports for urgent medical, educational, or leisure purposes, highlighting their fundamental right to obtain such documentation.

“The prevailing state of affairs is inexcusable, considering that it is the right of every Kenyan to acquire citizenship documents, including travel documents. As the Cabinet Secretary overseeing passport issuance, I take responsibility for the slow pace of reforms and the prevailing systemic inefficiencies,” Kindiki said on Friday.

The CS attributes the delays to outstanding debts to suppliers and inadequate investment in passport printers. Recognizing the urgency of the matter, Kindiki assures Kenyans of the government’s commitment to swiftly resolve the situation and improve service delivery. He says that the ministry has secured the necessary funds to settle outstanding debts and acquire new printing machines to expedite passport production and clear the existing backlog.

This development comes on the heels of reports indicating President William Ruto’s dissatisfaction with the passport delays as expressed during a recent government retreat. Kindiki’s decisive action signals a strong response to address this public concern and expedite the passport issuance process for Kenyan citizens.