Presidential term-extension Bill: Senate to table report on public participation as ODM, Western region oppose

The Senate Justice and Legal Affairs Committee is expected to table a report on public participation regarding the proposed extension of term limits for the president and other elected leaders through a bill tabled by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei.

The controversial bill has triggered widespread reactions, with the latest being fierce opposition from Western Kenya and the ODM leadership.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa added: "We know Cherargei was testing waters, but that matter is absolutely impossible."

"We don’t want leaders staying in office like Museveni," Barasa's deputy Ayub Savula on his part stated.

The leaders echoed the sentiments of many Kenyans who attended a public participation exercise led by the Senate at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre on Friday.

Cherargei's Bill is drawing attention from thousands of Kenyans who submitted their memoranda to the Senate through the provided email, resulting in a reported overload.

The JLAC Committee, chaired by Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei, is expected to table a report on the public participation findings before the Bill proceeds to the second reading.

The ODM party has pronounced its stance with its Secretary General Edwin Sifuna saying, "As ODM, we will not accept such matters. Leaders will go back to the people, and they will decide."

"We are waiting for that report, but we will not support it," Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi said.

Leaders within the UDA party have also expressed their disapproval of the bill.