KIAMBU: Leaders in Kiambu County have voiced opposition to a recently tabled bill that proposes extending the presidential term to seven years. Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has introduced a counter-proposal to amend the constitution, advocating for a reduction of the term limits for the presidency and other elected officials to four years.

According to Kenya News Agency, Thang’wa’s proposal aims to enhance accountability and foster greater political engagement among citizens by shortening the terms of elected officials, including members of parliament, senators, governors, and county assembly representatives. Thang’wa argues that more frequent elections would empower citizens to hold their leaders accountable and create opportunities for new leadership, preventing the accumulation of power and allowing for adaptability in governance.

Thang’wa emphasized that shorter terms could reinvigorate public interest in politics, as citizens would have the opportunity to influence leadership decisions more frequently.
He expressed confidence that this change would strengthen democratic principles and encourage active public involvement in the electoral process.

Kikuyu Member of Parliament and Majority Leader of the National Assembly, Kimani Ichung’wa, has supported Senator Thang’wa’s stance, criticizing the amendment bill proposed by Senator Samson Cherargei as “dead on arrival.” Ichung’wa rejected Cherargei’s proposal to extend terms for various elected officials to seven years, stating that such changes to Articles 101, 177, and 180 of the constitution are not appropriate.

Cherargei’s bill also suggests introducing a new governmental role by establishing the office of Prime Minister, who would be the leader of the largest political party or coalition within Parliament. If passed, the bill could significantly alter Kenya’s political landscape by redefining leadership roles and extending tenure for elected officials, fostering a broader discussion on governance and accountability in the country.