Kenyans troop to KICC for public participation on proposed extension of presidential term limit

The public participation forum concerning the proposal to extend the presidential term limit to seven years is currently taking place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

Kenyans turned out in large numbers for the forum, demonstrating their strong interest in the proposed changes and their commitment to engaging in the democratic process.

Many of the participants strongly opposed the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, sponsored by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei.

Discussions have also spilled over to social media platform X, where many Kenyans are vocally opposing the proposal, further highlighting the widespread concern about potential changes to the presidential term limits.

"We have many things to focus on as a country. why didn't they bring public participation when they were selling KPLC? why up to now they have not brought public participation on Adani-JKIA deal? These people only concentrate on where they benefit from, they don't focus on you guys," X user The Nairobian added. 

Should the Bill be passed, Presidents will enjoy a seven-year term if the Bill amends Article 136 of the Constitution. The proposal will also apply to other elected officials such as governors, Members of Parliament and Governors.

The Senator also proposed the creation of the Prime Minister's office that will be appointed by the president.

The caveat is that the Prime Minister must come from amongst the MPs, representing the largest party or coalition of parties in Parliament. 

"The Bill seeks to amend Article 151 by inserting 151A which proposes to create the office of the Prime Minister who shall be appointed by the president from amongst the members of Parliament. The Prime Minister shall be the leader of the largest party or coalition of parties in Parliament," the bill reads in part. 

According to Cherargei, the Bill seeks to provide a framework that will strengthen the existing system of devolution. He also noted that the Bill, if approved, will involve the Senate in national matters. 

For instance, the Bill proposes to involve the Senate in approving the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces in any part of the country. Currently, the law dictates that the executive must seek the approval of the National Assembly. 

In September, Cherargei submitted the proposal as a memorandum to the National Dialogue Committee, a committee formed by President William Ruto and Raila Odinga's men to address issues brought about after the March 2023 protests. 

He, however, shelved the idea following backlash from the public that opposed the proposal.