President William Ruto has firmly rejected a proposal to extend the presidential term limit from five to seven years. The billl tabled by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei in Senate has sparked significant debate and controversy across the country. The proposal also seeks similar extensions for governors, Members of Parliament, and other elected positions.
October 24, in a video shared online by Aden Duale – Ruto’s Cabinet Secretary and close ally, President Ruto claimed that he and his Kenya Kwanza administration would oppose any attempts to amend the constitution for such purposes. He emphasized his high commitment to upholding the current constitutional provisions, stating that any efforts to change the term limits would be an exercise in futility and would not happen under his watch
The proposal by Senator Cherargei has faced widespread backlash from various sectors, including political leaders and the general public. Critics argue that extending the term limits is a selfish move by leaders that undermines democratic principles and the accountability of elected leaders. Ruto’s party, The United Democratic Alliance (UDA), has also distanced itself from the proposal, describing it as retrogressive and contrary to Kenya’s democratic ideals.
Thousands of Kenyans have submitted their views on the proposed bill after a public participation exercise by the Senate. Many have expressed strong opposition, arguing that the current five-year term is sufficient for leaders to implement their policies and deliver on their election promises. The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) and other civil society organizations have also voiced their concerns, urging the Senate to withdraw the bill.
The debate over term limits is not new thing in the country’s politics. Previous attempts to amend the constitution to extend or remove term limits have been met with similar resistance. The current proposal by Senator Cherargei is seen by many as another attempt to entrench political power and reduce the frequency of electoral accountability.
As the Senate continues to deliberate on the bill, it remains to be seen whether the proposal will gain any traction or be shelved in the face of overwhelming public opposition.
By Nairobunews