Ruto Discloses Position on Extending Presidential Term Limit
Image: President Ruto arrives for the launch of the CRSP initiative in Nairobi.President William Ruto has sharply opposed a bill introduced by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, which aims to extend the presidential term limit from five to seven years. Ruto shared a statement from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the ruling party, distancing itself from the Senator’s controversial proposal.
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In a statement, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar condemned the amendment, calling it a self-serving attempt that undermines Kenya’s democratic values. The party stressed that regular leadership transitions are crucial for holding leaders accountable and empowering citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
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“The proposal seeks to deny citizens the opportunity to hold leadership accountable regularly,” the statement said, which Ruto reshared on his X (formerly Twitter) account. The UDA also criticized the sponsors for neglecting the historical significance of term limits in Kenya’s political framework.
Describing the proposal as “political delinquency,” the party highlighted the importance of term limits in preventing power concentration. It called on Senator Cherargei and other backers to immediately withdraw the bill, reaffirming Kenya’s long-standing struggle for constitutional change.
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The Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, seeks not only to extend the presidential term but also to lengthen the terms for governors, Members of Parliament, and senators, while introducing a prime minister’s position, appointed by the president.
The bill has ignited widespread backlash, with critics accusing it of undermining Kenya’s democratic progress. This follows a similar proposal in 2023 that was abandoned after sparking public outcry, with many viewing it as a threat to accountability and a step backward in Kenya’s democracy.
