Say No to the 7-Year Extension Bill Amendment

There’s a controversial new bill is making its way through Parliament that could fundamentally alter our democratic system. The Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2024, (Senate Bills No. 46 of 2024) sponsored by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, is seeks to extend the term lengths of elected officials from five years to seven years. This includes the President, Governors, Members of Parliament (MPs), Senators, and Members of County Assemblies (MCAs). It also proposes the creation of a Prime Minister position among other ammendments.

Why this Bill was Likely Proposed

1. Those who support the amendment argue that extending term limits will create stability in governance, allowing elected officials more time to implement long-term policies and programs without the constant disruption of election cycles.

   With an extended seven-year term, supporters believe that leaders can focus more on governing effectively, rather than constantly being in "campaign mode."
   

2. It can be also argued that the extension can lead to reduced election costs, freeing up public funds for other essential services like education and healthcare.
   

The Bill’s Real Impact on Kenyans

The proposed 7-year terms may sound like they’ll offer "stability," but this so-called stability comes at a high cost to the Kenyan people.

Following the shocking revelations of the sale of JKIA to Adani, the ‘forced’ adoption of the SHIF/SHA Health System and other scams, this bill is a blatant power grab—a move by the political elite to entrench themselves into power.

This is not just another amendment, it’s a direct threat to the future of our democracy and this is why:

1. Reduced Accountability: 
   Longer terms mean less frequent elections—fewer opportunities to hold corrupt leaders accountable.
   
   How many politicians have we seen abuse their power, engage in corrupt deals, and fail to deliver on their promises even with a five-year term? Imagine the damage they could do with seven years of unchecked power.

   
   

2. Corruption Risks Increase: 
   Longer terms create a breeding ground for corruption and abuse of power. Without the constant pressure of re-election, elected officials may become complacent or prioritize personal gain over public service. Kenya’s fight against corruption is already difficult enough—this bill would only make things worse.

   
   

3. Political Monopolies: 
   Extending term limits is nothing more than a self-serving attempt to consolidate political monopolies. The politicians pushing this amendment are doing so because it allows them to remain in power longer so as to deepen their control over the country’s resources and systems. This is not about public good—this is about personal power.

   
   

4. Public Opposition is Strong: 
   Let’s not forget that the people of Kenya are opposed to this bill. A majority of citizens favor keeping the current five-year terms.

   
   

5. Are We Going Toward Authoritarianism?

   This is not just about term limits; this is about power. By increasing the length of time politicians stay in office and adding a Prime Minister position, we are witnessing a restructuring of power that could fundamentally alter Kenya’s democratic framework.
   
   The creation of a Prime Minister position, appointed by the President, would centralize even more power within the executive, creating a system where checks and balances are weakened.

   
   History has proven that authoritarianism thrives when term limits are extended. We’ve seen it before—leaders extend their terms, rewrite the rules, and stay in power far longer than they should.
   
   This bill is the first step down that road. If we don’t act now, what’s stopping them from extending terms even further, or removing term limits altogether?

Kenyans Must Stand Now

This isn’t just about politicians—it’s about all of us. It’s about our future and the kind of country we want to live in. We’ve worked too hard for our democracy to let it slip away through a backdoor political maneuver.

We must hold our leaders accountable and remind them that sovereign power belongs to the people, not the political elite.

What Can YOU Do Right Now?

1. Submit Your Views
   Let the Senate know that you are against this dangerous amendment. You have until October 25, 2024, to submit your views. Let your voice be heard by downloading the Memorandum below, fill it in and email it to these 2 email addresses:
   Email your response to: [email protected]. Also send a copy of the same to [email protected]

2. Share information about this Ammendment Widely
   Spread the word. Tell your friends, family, and neighbors about the risks of this bill. Democracy is strongest when everyone participates.

   
   

3. Attend the Public Participation on Friday, 25th October 2024 at the Senate Chambers from 9AM.
   The Standing Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights will hold this hearing to gather public views on the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which proposes extending the terms of the President, County Governors, and Members of Parliament from 5 years to 7 years. The hearing will take place at 9:00 AM in the Senate Chambers.
   
   

4. Stay Informed 

   Follow the developments around this bill closely. Join grassroots organizations and advocacy groups that are fighting to protect our democracy. Together, we are stronger.

You have an oppotunity to give your voice and if you don’t, we shall regret not taking part.
If you have never been to the Senate, this is your opportunity to show up and express your opinion and views on this. If you can’t make it to the Senate, make sure to send your completed Memorandum to the emails indicated above.

Let’s come together and take part in shaping our nation’s democratic future today. Fill in the Memorandum and see you on October 25th at Senate Chambers!