Kenyans gathered in large numbers at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) to engage in public discussions on the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which proposes extending the presidential term limit to seven years.
The controversial Bill, sponsored by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, has sparked considerable opposition from Kenyans, with many attendees voicing their disapproval. This sentiment has also gained traction on social media platform X, where users widely condemn the proposal.
The Bill proposes amendments to Article 136, allowing elected officials, including the President, Governors, and Members of Parliament, to serve seven-year terms if approved. Additionally, the Bill outlines the establishment of a Prime Minister’s office.
According to the proposed Article 151A, the prime minister would be appointed by the President from the Members of Parliament and would lead the largest party or coalition in the National Assembly.
Senator Cherargei asserts that the Bill aims to enhance Kenya’s system of devolution and strengthen the Senate’s role in national decision-making. For example, one provision would grant the Senate authority to approve Kenya Defence Forces deployments within the country—a power currently held exclusively by the National Assembly.
This proposal follows a memorandum Cherargei submitted in September to the National Dialogue Committee. Formed by President William Ruto and Raila Odinga’s allies, the committee is tasked with addressing issues that emerged after the mass protests in March 2023.
As public discussions continue, the proposal has already made clear the level of public concern over potential shifts in Kenya’s constitutional framework, particularly regarding executive powers and the structure of government leadership.
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