The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has distanced itself from Senator Samson Cherargei’s controversial bill seeking to amend the constitution and extend the presidential term limit.
The party labeled the proposal as “retrogressive, primitive, and a threat to Kenya’s democracy.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, UDA expressed disappointment that one of its elected leaders tabled the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which aims to alter the existing term limits for all elective offices, including the presidency.
The party’s Secretary General, Hassan Omar Hassan, termed the move as “a misguided and self-serving attempt to undermine the will of the people.”
He added that the bill goes against Kenya’s long-standing aspirations to prevent political monopolies and preserve democratic integrity.
“The masterminds behind this bill are preoccupied with perverse political indulgence and delinquency.
It serves no legitimate purpose and seeks to deny Kenyans the opportunity to hold leaders accountable,” read part of the statement.
According to UDA, the bill contradicts the core values of the party, which is committed to ensuring democratic progress and leadership accountability. ]
The party also criticized the sponsors for failing to consider the historical origins and necessity of the current term limits.
In a sharp rebuke, the party urged its members not to associate themselves with the bill.
“We disassociate ourselves from this backward proposal and call on any of our members involved in it to cease any form of support or engagement immediately,” said Hassan.
UDA emphasized its commitment to defending Kenya’s constitutional integrity and promoting a democratic culture that honors the aspirations of the people.
The party concluded by urging Kenyans to reject the bill, calling it “a juvenile political experiment that must be halted to protect the country’s democratic future.”