In recent times, obtaining a 32-page passport in Kenya has become an arduous task, marred by bureaucratic hurdles and allegations of corruption. Despite passports being essential travel documents akin to ID cards, the process has proven to be a formidable challenge for many citizens. The situation has prompted concerns from various quarters, highlighting systemic issues within the passport issuance system.
The three available sizes for ordinary Kenyan passports – 34, 50, and 66 pages – offer some flexibility in choosing the appropriate document. However, the shortage of the 32-page booklet, coupled with bureaucratic inefficiencies, has left many applicants frustrated and disillusioned. Reports indicate that some individuals have resorted to using brokers, despite warnings from authorities, in a bid to expedite the process. Unfortunately, this often leads to documents being rejected, further exacerbating the problem.
The government’s response to the passport crisis has been met with skepticism. While promises were made to streamline the process and alleviate the shortage, tangible results have yet to materialize. Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki assurances of notifying citizens weekly about passport collection dates provided temporary relief but proved unsustainable in the long run. Subsequent attempts to address the issue seem to have fallen short, leaving citizens feeling disillusioned and marginalized.
The recent proposal to upgrade to the 50-page passport as an alternative solution has sparked controversy. While ostensibly addressing the shortage, it imposes additional financial burdens on applicants who originally applied for the 32-page booklet. This shift in policy has been met with criticism, with many questioning the government’s motives and commitment to resolving the passport crisis.
Moreover, the reported discrepancies between official statements and the lived experiences of citizens further erode trust in the passport issuance process. Allegations of corruption and irregularities persist, undermining public confidence in the government’s ability to manage the situation effectively.
The challenges surrounding passport acquisition in Kenya underscore broader issues of governance, transparency, and accountability. Addressing these systemic issues requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to ensure a fair and efficient passport issuance system that upholds the rights of citizens and facilitates their mobility. Until then, the plight of Kenyans navigating the labyrinthine passport process remains a pressing concern that demands urgent attention and meaningful reform.
