Thousands of Kenyans have strongly opposed a controversial bill seeking to extend presidential and legislative term limits. The public participation process began this week in Isiolo and Bungoma counties.
The Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, has sparked widespread debate across the nation. Senator Samson Cherargei of Nandi County sponsored the controversial legislation.
The bill proposes extending term limits from five to seven years for several elected positions. These include the president, senators, members of parliament, and county governors.
Additionally, the proposed amendments seek to establish the Office of the Prime Minister. The bill also aims to give more powers to the Senate.
The Senate has invited citizens to share their views on the proposed changes. The deadline for public submissions is set for October 25, 2024.
Public response has been overwhelming and largely negative. The Senate has already received more than 121,000 written memoranda from concerned citizens.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has taken a firm stance against the bill. They argue that it violates the basic structure of Kenya’s constitution.
The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has also voiced strong opposition. They describe the bill as a self-serving attempt by politicians to extend their stay in power.
Legal experts predict the number of submissions could reach 200,000 by the deadline. Most of these submissions express strong disagreement with the proposed changes.
Meanwhile, the government has unveiled its budget plans for the 2024/25 fiscal year. The administration aims to spend KES 3.992 trillion in total expenditure.
The Treasury projects to collect KES 3.343 trillion in revenue during this period. However, this still leaves a significant fiscal deficit of KES 597.0 billion.
To fund its ambitious budget, the government plans to raise KES 2.917 trillion in ordinary revenue. This includes an additional KES 178 billion in new revenue measures.
The public participation process for the Amendment Bill continues across different counties. Citizens have shown remarkable engagement in expressing their views.
Local community leaders have organised forums to discuss the implications of the proposed changes. Many worry about the impact on Kenya’s democratic principles.
Civil society organisations have launched awareness campaigns about the bill. They aim to help citizens understand the proposed constitutional changes.
The Senate committees are conducting hearings in various locations. They listen to public opinions and record concerns about the amendments.
Economic analysts are closely watching both the constitutional amendment process and budget plans. These developments could significantly impact Kenya’s political and financial future.
The government faces the challenge of balancing its ambitious spending plans. They must also address the growing public opposition to the proposed constitutional changes.
Opposition leaders have called for nationwide discussions about the amendment bill. They emphasise the importance of protecting democratic institutions.
Business leaders express concern about the potential impact on investor confidence. They worry about how political changes might affect economic stability.
The Treasury has detailed plans to bridge the budget deficit. These include both domestic and international borrowing strategies.
County governments are particularly interested in the proposed changes. The amendments could affect their funding and administrative powers.
Youth organisations have been vocal in opposing term limit extensions. They argue that longer terms would limit political participation for younger generations.
International observers are monitoring the situation closely. They note the significance of both the constitutional amendments and fiscal planning.
The Senate must carefully consider the overwhelming public response. Their decision could shape Kenya’s political landscape for years to come.
As the deadline approaches, more citizens continue to submit their views. The strong public engagement demonstrates the importance of these issues to Kenyans.
The outcome of this process will influence Kenya’s governance structure. It will also affect the country’s economic planning for the coming years.