Democratic Party oppose proposed presidential term limit extension
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei who is pushing to have term limit for President, MPs and Governors be seven(7) years from the current five(5) years. File photo
Democratic Party of Kenya (DP) has opposed the proposed Bill that seeks to extend the term limit of President and other elective seats from five(5) years to seven(7) years.
The Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2024 championed by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei seeks to extend the terms of office for the President, Governors and Parliamentarians.
DP Secretary-General Jacob Haji has said the country is facing various challenges, adding that the proposed Constitutional amendment is not a priority for Kenyans.
Dr Haji appealed to Kenyans to strongly oppose the proposal and that leaders should focus on uniting and finding solutions towards the challenges facing the country.
“We have had elected leaders since 1963 and there has never been any suggestion from anyone for extension of office terms. We ask ourselves, why does this Kenya Kwanza regime want to increase the term of office?” posed Dr Haji in a press statement sent to newsrooms on Monday.
“In our view, this is not the right time for this discussion as Kenya is facing hard times economically. We have the healthcare issue and problems with our education system. We urge our leaders to unite and find solutions towards making a better Kenyan fraternity for us all,” he added.
He said the party has over the years endeavored in promoting unity of all Kenyans.
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has also urged the Senate not to endorse the proposal, arguing that it offends the Constitution’s basic structure.
ODM party Executive Director Oduor Ong’wen on Monday noted that the Bill is a threat to the country’s democracy.
“We urge the Senate to reject this Bill and uphold the principles of good governance, the rule of Law and the Constitutional requirement for general public participation through a public referendum,” Mr Ong’wen said.
The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has also opposed the Bill, saying that it seeks to fulfill selfish interests of a section of politicians.
ICJ Kenya chapter chairperson Protas Saende said that the proposed amendments to the Constitution will weaken the governance framework.
“The political temperature, though rising, has yet to reach a boiling point and if our leaders continue down this path of self-serving legislation, they are pouring fuel on a smoldering fire,” Mr Saende said.
The Senate Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs has been conducting public participation on the Bill since October 2, 2024.
