KENYA : Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa has proposed a reduction of the term of the President, Governors, Senators, Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members Of County Assembly (MCAs).
Speaking to the press on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, Karungo proposed four-year terms for Presidents, MPs, Senators, Governors, and Members of County Assembly (MCAs).
The Kiambu Senator argued that the new term limits will encourage the emergence of new leaders while also incentivising leaders to prioritise citizens’ interests.
“A four year term allows for the new leaders to emerge, fostering innovation and responsiveness to the needs of our diverse population.” the Senator stated.
He reiterated that the new proposal would be good for democracy. “Our democracy thrives on fresh ideas and perspectives.”
The Kiambu Senator argued that longer terms are counterproductive to Kenyans and dent the leadership capacities of elected leaders.
“We need to prevent consolidation of power amongst elected leaders. Longer terms can lead to entrenched leadership.” Karungo reiterated.
The senator has gained popularity for being a staunch ally of recently impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and has openly defended him in various fora.
Under current Kenyan law, the President and other elected leaders normally serve a single term of five years. However, governors can only serve a maximum of two terms whereas MPs and MCAs are eligible for re-election as many times as possible.
This comes at a time when the Senate is currently debating the Constitution (Amendment) Bill of 2024 which seeks to introduce a seven year term for the President and other elected leaders. The Bill was sponsored by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei.
The Bill has caused huge uproar amongst the public and within the political divide. However, President William Ruto as well his party, UDA have come out strongly to refute the Bill.
“The discussion on changing the Constitution for parochial, selfish and personal matters is no space to go. I want to be very clear that as President, I will not participate in mutilating the Constitution for purposes of serving selfish interests.” said President Ruto.
The new proposal by Senator Thangwa to change the term duration of elected leaders in Kenya is set to throw a new spanner in the works in the political power play in Kenya.
Kenyans have until Friday to air their views in a public participation move for the Samson Cherargei Sponsored Bill which seeks to extend limits from five years to Seven Years.
What remains to be seen is if the senator will proceed with the discussion of the Nandi Senator Cherargei's Bill despite the widespread critism