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The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has firmly opposed a contentious bill in Kenya seeking to extend the term length of elected leaders from five to seven years.
The proposal, known as the Constitution Amendment Bill No. 2 of 2024, is spearheaded by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei and aims to modify Kenya’s Constitution to allow the extended term length. Should it gain approval, the bill would necessitate a referendum for its enactment, with a final decision resting in the hands of Kenyan voters.
The Kenyan Senate’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee is scheduled to present findings on the bill from its public participation exercises in the coming week, setting the stage for a debate in the Senate. This anticipated discussion comes amidst mounting opposition from various quarters, including ODM, religious leaders, and citizens at large, who view the amendment as a threat to democratic principles and governance standards.
In a statement, ODM urged the Senate to decisively reject the bill, asserting that passing such an amendment would undermine Kenya’s commitment to good governance and the rule of law. “ODM firmly stands against any attempts to extend the term limits of elected officials. This proposal not only threatens democratic stability but also disregards the will of Kenyans,” the statement read.
Proposed Amendments Spark Public Outcry
The amendment, if passed, would extend the tenure of Kenya’s key elected positions, including that of the President, Senators, Members of Parliament, and County Assembly Representatives, from the current five-year term to seven years. Proponents of the bill argue that an extended term would enable leaders to focus on long-term development projects, potentially minimizing frequent electoral disruptions and allowing sufficient time to address critical issues. However, critics argue that the amendment is an attempt to shield leaders from accountability while reducing voters’ power to effect timely changes in leadership.
Citizens and civil society organizations have also voiced concerns that the amendment would hinder political dynamism and foster complacency among leaders who would face fewer elections. Religious leaders have joined the opposition chorus, warning that longer terms could erode the nation’s democratic fabric and create an imbalance of power. They argue that a seven-year term risks diluting the democratic checks and balances essential to preventing authoritarian rule and preserving the democratic process.
Senate’s Deliberations Amidst Public Backlash
The Senate is poised to tackle these issues in the upcoming debate, and the stakes are high as ODM and other opposition parties rally to block the bill’s passage. ODM’s stance resonates with a significant portion of the Kenyan populace who, according to recent informal polls, are overwhelmingly opposed to term extensions. Observers note that the proposal has galvanized public interest, with citizens keenly watching Senate proceedings to see how their representatives will respond to the contentious bill.
ODM, Kenya’s primary opposition party, has urged lawmakers to focus on policies that foster accountability and transparency rather than prolonging leaders’ time in office. “By rejecting this amendment, the Senate would reaffirm its commitment to the democratic values that underlie Kenya’s Constitution,” ODM stated, calling on Senators to align with the public’s overwhelming opposition.
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Next Steps: Senate and Public Referendum
Once the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee presents its report, the Senate is expected to hold a rigorous debate, following which a vote will determine the bill’s future. Should it pass the Senate, the amendment would proceed to a national referendum, allowing Kenyans the final say in deciding whether to enshrine the seven-year term extension in the Constitution.
With the bill capturing widespread attention, the outcome could signal either a significant shift in Kenya’s governance model or a reaffirmation of its current electoral cycle, shaped by public opinion and Kenya’s democratic ethos.
The evolving situation promises to define the future of Kenya’s governance and democratic structure.
