Public Participation Forces Senator Cherargei to Amend Term Limit Extension Bill

On Friday, the Senate's Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights held a public hearing, attracting hundreds of Kenyans eager to share their opinions on the proposed Bill. Over 240,000 citizens had submitted memoranda, with many others delivering oral presentations during the public participation session at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.

Following widespread backlash, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei conceded to the public's demands to amend his proposed legislation, which aimed to extend presidential and elected leaders' term limits. After the public session, where citizens overwhelmingly rejected the proposal, Cherargei expressed a willingness to revise the contentious provisions.

The senator defended his position, arguing that Kenya’s development is often hampered by constant political campaigns. He maintained that a leader's effectiveness should not be judged solely by the duration of their tenure. Cherargei further emphasized the financial burden elections impose, noting that Kenya's electoral process is among the most expensive. He dismissed allegations that the bill was influenced by individuals seeking to cling to power, affirming that he had no ulterior motives in sponsoring the legislation.