High Court suspends gov't move to increase ID, Passport application charges

This comes after a petitioner moved to court challenging the gazette notice dated November 6th.

"A conservatory order be and is hereby issued suspending Gazette Notices No. 15239-15242 dated 6th November 2023 and/or any other document purporting to give authority to increase or review the charges/fees/levies specified therein pending the hearing and determination of this Application inter-partes," ordered Justice L.N Mugambi.

He further argues that the increase is likely to affect young Kenyans and hence make it difficult for them to get Identity cards, which will lead to an inability to get job opportunities.

"That from the foregoing, this action of the respondents will lead to inter alia loss of public confidence and outright abuse of political power to the detriment of  many other young Kenyans in the county," reads the petition

The matter will come up for confirmation of compliance and further directions on November 29, 2023.

The government, through the State Department of Immigration and Citizen Services, on Wednesday revised the charges of services including passport, ID, work permit, birth and death certificate applications.