The Democratic Party of Kenya (DP) has voiced firm opposition to a proposed Bill that seeks to extend the term of elected leaders from the current five years to seven, urging Kenyans to reject the amendment as it threatens to divert attention from the country’s pressing challenges.
The Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, championed by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, has ignited a national debate over its potential impact on Kenya’s democratic structure.
In a statement released on Monday, DP Secretary General Dr. Jacob Haji condemned the proposed extension, arguing that it is an unnecessary alteration to a longstanding democratic norm.
“Since independence, Kenya has maintained a five-year electoral cycle, and no administration has previously proposed an extension of office terms. We have to ask ourselves why this Kenya Kwanza government now wants to increase the term limit,” he remarked.
Dr. Haji emphasized that Kenya faces urgent issues in sectors such as health and education that require immediate governmental focus, not prolonged political terms.
“The life of political offices should not be prioritized over the pressing needs of Kenyans. We urge all leaders to unite in addressing these critical issues to ensure a better future for all,” he added, stressing that the DP’s opposition is rooted in its long-standing commitment to national unity and public interest.
The Bill has encountered resistance from various quarters, including the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
ODM Executive Director Oduor Ong’wen criticized the Bill, stating it threatens the constitutional foundation of Kenya’s democracy.
“We urge the Senate to reject this Bill and uphold principles of good governance, the rule of law, and the constitutional requirement for meaningful public participation,” Ong’wen said, cautioning against a unilateral decision on such a fundamental change.
The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) also joined the opposition, raising concerns over the Bill’s implications for governance. ICJ Kenya chapter chairperson Protas Saende argued that the proposed amendment serves the personal interests of a select group of politicians, rather than the nation’s needs.
“The political temperature is rising, and this Bill is only adding fuel to the flames. If leaders persist in this self-serving legislation, they risk escalating public discontent,” Saende warned.
Public sentiment also appears largely against the proposed term extension, as demonstrated in the Senate Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs’ recent public participation exercise.
The hearings, which concluded last Saturday, saw most citizens voicing opposition to the extension, further highlighting the widespread disapproval among Kenyans.
The fate of the Bill now rests with the Senate, where it is expected to face intense scrutiny in the coming sessions.
