Why SIM card re-registration is a flawed process

The silence by the Data Commissioner over the issues raised by subscribers is worrying. It should have provided clear directions to the service providers on how to proceed with the re-registration. [iStockphoto] 

Many Kenyans want to know why they should re-register their mobile phone SIM cards. The deadline was April 15, but the Communications Authority (CA) extended it to October 15. Initially, the details required included a photograph and a signature.

Many subscribers registered their SIM cards years ago. The demand for new details was met with apprehension. Being an election year, many conspiracy theories are bandied about as to why the operators want those details.