Uproar as Ruto Ally Seeks to Increase Presidential Term Limit

Critics are voicing concerns over a proposal to amend the presidential term limit presented by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei.

There are concerns that passing the proposal could set a dangerous precedent for the possible introduction of "presidents for life". Cherargei, a member of the ruling UDA party which is led by President William Ruto, has suggested lengthening the term to seven years instead of the current five. However, various sources including opposition leaders consider the proposal imprudent. Although President Ruto has been suspected of involvement according to observers, important members of the UDA have dismissed allegations of State House participation.

The move to repeal presidential term limits has sparked concerns among Azimio MPs on the potential for a dictatorship and the erosion of democracy. Critics of the proposal argue that it would give too much power to the president and undermine checks and balances in the government. Opposition leaders have continued to dispute the proposal, arguing that it is a blatant attempt by the government to consolidate power and silence dissenting voices.

National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi has vowed to resist such proposals. He believes that this is just the beginning of their ultimate goal, but they will not succeed as they will be met with the full resistance of Kenyans. Similarly, Mr. Atandi, his Alego Usonga counterpart, says he had seen this coming during the campaign. The proposal comes amidst infighting among government leaders as well as public outrage towards the increasing cost of living and undelivered campaign commitments.

Senator Moses Kajwang sees the proposal as a tactic by the government to deflect Kenyans from crucial issues. Western leaders accuse the senator of wanting to go back to an era that was unprogressive and disadvantageous to public welfare. They are steadfast in fighting against any policy they view as benefiting only a specific group to the detriment of the greater population. Analysts suggest the ongoing discussions regarding presidential term limits is not a priority.

There are concerns raised by dissenting voices within the Western Region regarding the potential impact of extending a president's term, especially on the political aspirations of Luhya leaders who are vying to succeed Dr Ruto. Matungu MP Oscar Nabulindo dismissed the senator's proposal, asserting that there are many capable leaders in Kenya eliminating the need to extend a president's term. According to Article 142 of Chapter Nine of the Constitution, a president's term begins on the day of their inauguration and ends when the next president is inaugurated in accordance with Article 136 (2) (a). This provides for a five-year term with the possibility of a subsequent five-year term, and any changes to this would require a referendum.

Suna East MP Junet Mohamed suggests that term limits should be reduced even further and argues that many leaders are unaware of the history behind agreeing on two terms and that someone could potentially stay in power indefinitely.