Senator Cherargei calls for longer terms, stability for effective governance
The UDA Senator pointed out that this continuous political activity could be slowing down meaningful progress, as officials are constantly distracted by political considerations.
Senator Samson Cherargei has raised concerns over Kenya’s continuous campaign culture, saying the country has been in a near-constant state of politicking since 2008.
Speaking on the issue at Radio Generation on Wednesday, he argued that frequent elections leave leaders with little time to focus on long-term development, noting that politicians often start campaigning immediately after being sworn into office.
“Aware that Kenya is on campaign perpetual mood for every year. I said, Do you know we have never stopped since 2022. I’ve gone through almost three, four elections since I came into politics,” Cherargei said.
He pointed out that this continuous political activity could be slowing down meaningful progress, as officials are constantly distracted by political considerations.
The UDA reflected on the purpose of some laws, noting that many are designed for posterity rather than immediate benefit.
“Some of these laws, we do it for posterity. That doesn’t mean that even when CDF was done… it did not benefit the members of parliament. Then it benefits even the… people who passed 2010 constitution are not beneficiaries. The people who are beneficiaries are total,” Cherargei stated..
He cited examples of countries like Rwanda, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Dubai, where longer terms and political stability allow governments to focus on development.
Cherargei suggested that Kenya could benefit from a similar approach, emphasizing the need for a benevolent leadership that can implement projects without constant interference.
“Even if you want to construct a road… somebody will protest… either they have their own political interest, economic interest,” he said.
When asked whether the problem lies in the Constitution or Kenyan politicians, Cherargei said extending terms could reduce unnecessary politicking.
“To some extent, because in my own thinking, if you know it is seven years to come, of course you should go back to your shamba or your businesses and allow the people who have been elected to run government or to run county assembly or governors,” the Senator explained.
Cherargei pointed out that safeguards already exist to prevent abuse of power, including votes of no confidence, impeachment processes, and constitutional checks. He added that some have proposed a single extended term of 10 years, but emphasized that such discussions are part of a democratic debate.
“We are democracy, we should have a conversation on anything and everything under the sun,” he said.
The senator also touched on debates over the role of MPs and governance structures.
Some suggest shifting funds from CDF to governors or even reducing the number of counties, while others recommend MPs focus solely on legislation, oversight, and budget processes.
Cherargei stressed that the conversation is ongoing and should guide decisions about what Kenya wants to achieve as a country.
“Let the MPs concentrate on legislation, representation, oversight and budget making process, so that they keep off there, because we have only two levels of government,” he said, emphasizing that proper focus by elected leaders is essential for efficient governance and development
