Kenyan Petitions Parliament to Impose Two-Term Limit for MPs and MCAs

A Kenyan has petitioned the National Assembly to amend the law to ensure that MPs and other elected leaders serve for a maximum of two five-year terms.

Jonah Gachuki wants parliament to amend Article 102 of the Constitution and other related provisions in order to limit the term of office of the deputy president, speakers of National Assembly and Senate, deputy governors, MPs, and MCAs.

He argues that it is discriminatory to have a term limit for the president and governors while other elected leaders are allowed to serve at their pleasure.

On Tuesday, National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi directed the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) to investigate the matter and submit a report to the house.

The proposed law could cut short the career of a Kenyan MP, which can run for decades.

For example, Kitutu Chache North MP Jimmy Angwenyi has served for five terms since winning a by-election in 1994, making him the longest-serving current parliamentarian. Vihiga Senator George Khaniri has served as an MP since 1996 while Siaya Senator James Orengo has been an MP for 23 years.

Other long-serving lawmakers include Senators Moses Wetangula (Bungoma) and Beth Mugo (nominated), MPs Gideon Konchella (Kilgoris) Adan Keynan (Eldas), Wafula Wamunyinyi (Kanduyi), Maoka Maore (Igembe North), Samwel Muoroto (Kapenguria), Naomi Shaban (Taveta), Katoo ole Metito (Kajiado South), Cecily Mbarire (nominated) and Maina Kamanda (nominated).