No more secrets: Registrar of Marriages publishes names, photos and wedding venues
By Aloys Michael, July 11, 2025Kenyans have reacted with shock following revelations that personal details of couples planning to wed, including names, photos, and wedding dates, are now publicly accessible on the eCitizen platform.
The development, which first gained traction on social media, marks a significant shift from the traditional process by the Registrar of Marriages, where such information was not made available online.
Taking to various platforms, concerned citizens raised questions over the legality of the move, citing possible violations of Kenya’s Data Protection Laws as enshrined in the Constitution.
Some users, in a humorous tone, warned that the disclosure could trigger drama in romantic relationships, particularly those shrouded in secrecy.
Many shared stories of discovering online that their partners were either married or about to tie the knot, shattering illusions of exclusive relationships. For some, it was how they uncovered affairs they never suspected.
“The Registrar of Marriages now posts names, photos, and wedding dates of soon-to-be-weds online. If someone suddenly disappears, check here first. Viewer discretion advised,” one X user quipped.
Another added, “You can now see who’s getting married on eCitizen—or search those already married, for a fee. Nowhere to hide anymore.”
Traditionally, couples intending to marry were required to file a Notice of Marriage with the Registrar, which would then be physically displayed at the Registrar’s office, usually pinned on the outer door, for 21 days to allow any legal objections to be raised.
Now, this notice has gone digital. While the goal of notifying the public remains, the format has changed. The inclusion of photographs, wedding dates, and venues, however, is a new and controversial twist.
To be eligible for a marriage license in Kenya, both individuals must present either a Kenyan ID or a passport, along with recent passport-sized photos. If one is a foreign national, they must also submit a visitor’s permit or proof of residence. An affidavit confirming that neither party is currently married is also required.
Kenyan law, under the Marriage Act, recognises five types of unions: Civil, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, and Customary. Marriages can occur between Kenyan citizens, a Kenyan and a foreign national, or two foreigners wishing to wed in Kenya.
Marriage goes digital
On Friday, July 10, 2020, the government officially rolled out digital marriage services, allowing couples to process everything online via eCitizen.
Speaking during the launch, State Law Office Chief Administrative Secretary Winnie Guchu said the new platform is part of broader reforms aimed at digitising services and reducing physical interactions in the wake of Covid-19.
“There will be no more manual services at the Registrar of Marriages at Sheria House. Everything will now be done online,” she announced. “We don’t want couples visiting Sheria House unless necessary.”
The entire registration process is now virtual. Couples must submit their details, pay the marriage fee, schedule a pre-wedding interview, and book an appointment for the ceremony—all through the portal.
Notably, couples will no longer have the freedom to select their wedding date. The system will assign them a date, and they must comply or rebook if unavailable.
Even under the new system, the 21-day notice period remains in place before a marriage can be approved, just as it was in the manual process.
According to new guidelines, garden weddings are now capped at 15 guests, while private ceremonies at the Attorney General’s office are limited to four attendees.