Bill seeks to extend President's term

A Bill tabled by Senator Samson Cherargei is seen by some as a plot to extend Kenya’s President William Ruto’s rule, but the lawmaker said it is aimed at giving more time to an elected President – as well as other elected officials – to deliver. Cherargei, who is affiliated to the ruling United Democratic Alliance, has caused an uproar after he presented the Bill to the Senate, seeking to amend article 136 of the Kenyan Constitution to extend the term of the President – as well as elected officials – from five to seven years. Under Kenyan law, a President is eligible to serve a maximum of two five-year terms, notes The Africa Report. However, Cherargei – a close ally of Ruto – argued that the current period is not enough for an elected President, or other elected leaders, to fulfil their constitutional mandate. ‘Seven years will enable the President to have a good opportunity to deliver his manifesto,’ he said, adding that because of persistent electoral disputes – including presidential election results that are contested in court – it takes at least two years for the elected President to settle down. He insists that the remaining three years are not enough for service delivery. The Bill also seeks the creation of the position of the Prime Minister, who will be appointed by the President. This is the second time that Cherargei is making such proposals.