A bill to amend the Constitution of Kenya is set to spark heated debate as UDA Senator Samson Cherargei proposes extending the terms of the President and all elected officials from five to seven years. The Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2024, which also introduces the Office of the Prime Minister, will soon have its first reading in the Senate, with lawmakers and the public divided on its potential impact.
Cherargei argues that the current five-year term is insufficient for elected leaders to fully implement their development agendas. “Frequent elections disrupt governance and slow down long-term projects that could benefit the nation,” he said, adding that a longer term would foster stability and give leaders more time to focus on critical initiatives without constant campaign pressures.
Proponents of the bill, largely from Cherargei’s UDA party, see this as an opportunity to improve governance. “With a seven-year term, leaders can plan and execute long-term projects more effectively. This would help us avoid the cycle of stalled projects every election year,” said one supporter. They also highlight that introducing the Office of the Prime Minister would help balance executive powers.
However, opposition leaders and civil society groups have voiced strong reservations. Critics warn that longer terms may undermine democratic accountability. “Extending the term to seven years risks weakening the connection between the electorate and their leaders. Citizens need regular elections to hold their leaders accountable,” said opposition figure Raila Odinga.
Some are also concerned about how the introduction of a Prime Minister might affect the power dynamics in government. “This bill introduces new complexities in our political system. The risk of power struggles between the President and Prime Minister could destabilize governance rather than strengthen it,” warned a civil society leader.
