Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has introduced a legislative proposal seeking to amend the country’s constitution. The proposal, unveiled this week, encompasses a range of changes from extending the terms of key political positions to redistributing national revenue to counties.
Among the most notable propositions, Senator Cherargei advocates for extending the terms of the president, Members of Parliament (MPs), governors, and Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) from five to seven years. This adjustment, if implemented, would provide longer tenures for these positions, potentially impacting the country’s political stability and policy continuity.
Furthermore, the proposal seeks to establish an Office of the Prime Minister, a move that could reintroduce the position last held in Kenya under the Grand Coalition government between 2008 and 2013. This office would likely serve as a central coordinating body, potentially streamlining government operations.
In a bid to enhance the vetting process for key government appointments, the proposal suggests that the Senate should be responsible for vetting Cabinet Secretaries, the Attorney General, the Auditor General, the Police Inspector General, the Chief Justice, and judges. This shift could bolster accountability and transparency in these crucial appointments.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly would take on the responsibility of vetting ambassadors, a move aimed at ensuring diplomatic roles are filled by qualified individuals capable of representing Kenya’s interests effectively on the global stage.
One of the most significant changes proposed is the allocation of national revenue to counties. Senator Cherargei’s proposal suggests that counties should receive 40 per cent of the national revenue, a substantial increase from the current 15 per cent. This change could lead to greater financial autonomy for counties, empowering them to address local needs and promote development more effectively.
Additionally, the proposal aims to streamline the impeachment process for governors and deputy governors. According to the proposal, challenges to the impeachment of these officials would be exclusively handled by the Supreme Court, potentially expediting the resolution of such cases and ensuring judicial oversight.
Lastly, the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) would require approval from both Houses of Parliament, reinforcing legislative oversight on matters of national security and defence.
