The Kenyan Parliament has received a petition advocating for legislation to limit the terms of Senators, Members of Parliament (MPs), and Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) to a maximum of two five-year terms.
The proposal, submitted by the Nakuru-based Grassroot Civilian Oversight Initiative, aims to mirror the term limits already applied to the presidency and governorship, aligning the tenure of these elected representatives with that of Kenya’s highest offices.
The civil rights group argues that implementing term limits would enhance fairness in Kenya’s political landscape, enabling voters to experience a greater diversity of leadership approaches and ideas. In their petition to the National Assembly, the group recommends limiting elected representatives at both county and national levels to a cumulative 10 years in office.
Laban Omusundi, coordinator of the Grassroot Civilian Oversight Initiative, expressed that this measure would promote fairness and allow new leaders to emerge. “The two-term limit for the President and governors should extend to other elected political leaders to ensure fairness across all political positions and to cultivate diverse gifts and talents in emerging leaders,” Omusundi explained.
The group supports its proposal by referencing Articles 37 and 119 of the Kenyan Constitution, which provide for public participation in governance and the right to petition Parliament on issues affecting the nation.
Omusundi emphasized that the rationale behind capping terms for the presidency and governorship should apply to all elected offices, arguing that the current system creates disparities among political leaders. “It is unfair for one group of leaders to serve for two terms while others are allowed to serve indefinitely,” he added.
The petitioners argue that indefinite terms can foster a sense of entitlement among some leaders, who may come to view their positions as personal “birthrights.” By introducing term limits across all political offices, they believe, the nation would prevent entrenchment of power and encourage a political environment that reflects a variety of perspectives and talents.
Parliament will now review the petition and decide whether to pursue legislation based on the proposal.
