A public participation forum on the proposal to extend the presidential term limit to seven years is currently underway at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

A large number of Kenyans attended the forum, reflecting their keen interest in the proposed changes and their commitment to the democratic process.

Many attendees voiced strong opposition to the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, put forward by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei

If the bill passes

If the Bill is passed and Article 136 of the Constitution is amended, presidents will serve a seven-year term.

This proposed change would also extend to other elected officials, including governors and Members of Parliament.

Prime Minister

In the Bill, Senator Cherargei also proposed establishing the position of Prime Minister, who would be appointed by the President.

The Prime Minister would be selected from among Members of Parliament, specifically from the largest party or coalition in Parliament.

“The Bill seeks to amend Article 151 by adding Article 151A, which proposes creating the office of Prime Minister, to be appointed by the President from among Members of Parliament.

This Prime Minister would be the leader of the largest party or coalition in Parliament,” the bill states in part.

According to Senator Cherargei, the Bill aims to strengthen devolution by involving the Senate more in national governance.

For example, it proposes giving the Senate a role in approving the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces within the country, a responsibility currently held by the National Assembly.

In September, Cherargei submitted this proposal to the National Dialogue Committee, established by President William Ruto and Raila Odinga’s team to address issues stemming from the March 2023 protests.

However, he later paused the proposal, following significant public opposition.

Follow kenyaonline.xyz