Public Participation Window on Controversial Bill to Extend Term Limits Closes Amid Public Outcry.

The window for public participation on the contentious Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which seeks to extend electoral terms, closes on Friday with a forum scheduled at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). The Bill, introduced by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, proposes increasing the term length for elected officials from five to seven years, sparking widespread public criticism. Many Kenyans view the amendment as a self-serving move intended to benefit the political elite.

This is the second recent attempt to amend presidential term limits since President William Ruto took office in 2022. The first attempt, led by Fafi MP Farah Yakub, aimed to abolish the two-term presidential limit and replace it with an age limit of 75 years. However, that proposal was abandoned following strong public opposition.

Civil society groups, including the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), have submitted memorandums to Parliament rejecting the Bill. They argue that the current five-year term is adequate for leaders to implement their policies and that extending it is unnecessary.

On Friday, more Kenyans are expected to present their views in person or through written submissions at the forum organized by the Senate’s Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights Committee. In response to growing concerns about frequent attempts to change the Constitution, Senate leaders are considering new House rules that would require any member introducing a constitutional amendment Bill to first gather signatures from two-thirds of the Senate members—a move welcomed by many as a way to ensure accountability in the legislative process.