Political analyst Mutahi Ngunyi has supported a proposal by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei to extend the presidential term from five to seven years.

The political analyst has defended Cherargei, saying the Nandi Senator has a point that should be considered by Kenyans to bring change in the presidential term limit.

In a statement posted on his X account, Ngunyi explained that ten years are not enough for a president to bring change in Kenya’s economy.

“Senator Cherargei is not without a point. Imagine if Uhuru or Kibaki were in office for 14 years each and  if Ruto is in office for 14 years till 2036?”

“Change is the only constant thing in the world. Everything else changes. Ten years is too short to bring about change. Or is It?” Ngunyi stated.  

Ngunyi’s remarks come a few days after the proposal by Cherargei caused an uproar among Kenyans, including politicians in President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza government. 

READ ALSO: UDA Party distances itself from Senator Cherargei’s seven-year presidential term limit proposal

This was after Senator Cherargei, a close ally of President Ruto submitted the proposal to the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO), seeking to extend the presidential term limit from five to seven years.

“Increase the presidential term to seven years: Whereas the current Constitution provides for a two-term presidential term limit comprising ten years there is a need to increase the same to two terms of seven years each, ” said Cherargei when he appeared before the dialogue committee.

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According to Cherargei, extending the term limit would enable the president to have enough time to establish and accomplish development projects for the citizens. 

UDA rejects proposal to extend presidential term limit

On the other hand, the ruling party, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has distanced itself from Cherargei’s proposal to increase presidential term limits.

UDA secretary general Cleophas Malala on September 25 noted in a statement that the proposal was a personal opinion of the Nandi senator and does not represent the views of President Ruto or the party. 

“The President solemnly swore to respect and uphold and defend the constitution which is abundantly clear and categorical on the Presidential term limit,” read part of the UDA statement.