Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa has introduced a bill seeking to reduce the term limits for elected officials from the current five years to four years.
In a press briefing held on Wednesday, October 23, Thang’wa explained that the proposed amendment aims to increase accountability among leaders and enhance public participation in the electoral process.
According to the senator, shortening the terms would give Kenyans more frequent opportunities to assess the performance of their leaders and make necessary changes.
Thang’wa, a strong ally of impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, emphasized that this change would strengthen the country’s democratic practices by preventing the entrenchment of political power.
“A four-year term gives voters more chances to hold their leaders accountable, while also encouraging greater political engagement.
When citizens know they can influence leadership decisions more frequently, they are more likely to participate in elections,” Thang’wa stated.
The senator’s proposal comes in response to a competing bill sponsored by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, which seeks to extend the terms of elected officials from five to seven years.
Cherargei’s bill has sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that it is designed to serve the interests of politicians rather than the public.
Thang’wa dismissed Cherargei’s proposal as a distraction from the country’s real challenges, such as issues in health, education, and security.
“This amendment could divert attention from pressing national matters and undermine the public’s right to frequently evaluate their leaders,” Thang’wa added.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah also criticized Cherargei’s bill, declaring it “dead on arrival.”
In a post on social media, Ichung’wah urged Cherargei to abandon the proposal, calling it a waste of time and resources.
The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has also condemned the proposal, with Secretary-General Hassan Omar describing it as “undemocratic” and a threat to Kenya’s democratic aspirations.
Omar added that such an amendment would likely require a referendum rather than just a parliamentary process.
Despite the backlash, Cherargei’s bill is currently undergoing public participation, set to conclude on Friday, October 25.
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