Kenya Senate email system crashed this week after an overwhelming response from the public regarding a controversial bill that proposes to extend the terms of the president, governors, and MPs from five to seven years. The bill, introduced by Senator Samson Cherargei, has stirred significant public anger and mobilised Kenyans across social media.
The proposal, which also includes creating a prime minister role and boosting county funding, received more than 200,000 public submissions, reaching the Senate’s email capacity, as confirmed on the Senate’s X account. The unexpected volume forced the Senate to redirect comments to an alternative email address.
Political backlash and public outcry
The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), led by President William Ruto, has distanced itself from the bill, with UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar labelling it ‘repugnant and backward,’ according to The Nation newspaper. Although put forward by a senator within his party, President Ruto himself has rejected calls to abolish presidential term limits, previously calling such moves ‘unnecessary.’
Senator Cherargei defended his bill, arguing that a seven-year term would provide leaders sufficient time to fulfil their promises. However, the proposed amendments have met with widespread resistance, highlighting a deep-seated public scepticism towards political leaders. ‘People are cynical about any move to extend political tenure,’ said an observer, noting that the proposal follows a turbulent period marked by high living costs and recent tax-related protests.
Senate to review public feedback
In response to the deluge of feedback, the Senate expressed gratitude for the public’s engagement but acknowledged the strain on its email system. ‘Due to high volumes… our email system has temporarily experienced issues,’ it said, before providing an alternative for submissions.
The public consultation period closed on Friday, after which a Senate committee will evaluate the feedback. The proposed legislation has been submitted for review, though sources within parliament remarked to The Star news outlet hat the unprecedented response rate reflects strong opposition.
Context and public sentiment
The bill surfaces amid an atmosphere of economic frustration and political scrutiny. President Ruto’s administration has faced months of demonstrations, starting in June, against increased taxes, which resulted in at least 40 deaths. The backlash forced the president to retract some policies and include opposition members in his cabinet in an attempt to ease public discontent.
This is the second attempt since Ruto’s 2022 election to alter Kenya’s presidential term limit. Two years ago, a ruling party MP proposed replacing the two-term limit with an age cap of 75, a move that also met with public outrage and was swiftly abandoned.
As Kenya’s lawmakers proceed with the evaluation, they face a public wary of any perceived attempt to prolong political power. With the bill now under scrutiny, the Senate committee’s assessment will be closely watched.
FOR ADVERT AND NEWS PUBLICATION, EMAIL US @ tarakirivoicenewspaper@gmail.com or call or WhatsApp us on 08160439769
