The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has written to the Senate expressing its opposition to a bill proposing to extend the presidential and other elected leaders' term limits from five to seven years.
In a letter dated October 25, ODM stated that its rejection of the bill was based on the bill's contravention of the constitution.
"We wish to here register our concern by expressing our total rejection of the proposed Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) No. 2 Bill, 2024, in its entirety.
"This rejection is based on the contravention of Article 255 (1) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and subversion of its basic structure," ODM Executive Director Oduor Ong'wen stated.
Ong'wen added that according to the constitution, any amendment relating to the supremacy of the constitution and term office of the president must be approved through a referendum.
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He maintained that the proposed bill threatens the foundation of Kenya's democracy, undermines the sovereignty of the people and goes against the principle of public participation.
The ODM Executive Director urged the Senate to reject the bill and demanded written feedback from the Senate upon receipt and consideration of the letter.
"We therefore urge the Senate to reject this bill and uphold the principles of good governance, the rule of law and the constitutional requirement for genuine public participation through a public referendum.
"We are demanding an opportunity to make further oral submissions on this Memorandum. We are further demanding written feedback on proof of receipt and actual consideration of this memorandum and taking into consideration sentiments herein by the senate and reasons for non-consideration, if any," Ong'wen remarked.
The bill, which is sponsored by Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, has elicited debate among Kenyans and elected leaders, with many Kenyans opposing it.
