Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has proposed a two-term ceiling for leaders who secure nominated positions in Parliament and county assemblies through political parties. He believes this limit will ensure that nomination slots are opened up to more people while giving those selected an opportunity to gain experience and prepare for elective politics. Sifuna made these remarks during a Senate debate on a motion brought by human rights advocate Laban Omusundi, who wants nominated Members of County Assembly (MCAs) to serve for only one term.
Sifuna differed with the proposal for a single term, arguing that two terms would provide a better balance between giving leaders time to serve and creating opportunities for others. He stated that the reasons justifying a politician's first nomination should not automatically guarantee another term. According to Sifuna, a first appointment could be based on a leader's contribution to the party or expertise, but anyone seeking to return for a second term should first show what they achieved in office.
The senator emphasized that a two-term limit would prevent the same people from occupying nomination slots repeatedly and allow new leaders to gain experience in public service. He cited the example of nominated Senator Crystal Asige, whose work could justify another term due to her contribution to Senate proceedings and representation of persons with disabilities. Sifuna also raised concerns about the conduct of some nominated senators, saying some had faced criticism from members of the public over their performance and behavior in office.
Sifuna suggested that the record of lawmakers in the Senate should form part of the consideration when parties decide whether to nominate them again. He proposed that the second term should be deserved, based on how a leader has conducted themselves, the contributions they've made on the floor, and the contributions they've made towards the constituency that nominated them. This, he believes, will ensure that only effective leaders are given a second chance.
Other senators shared their views on the matter, with Gilgil MP Martha Wangari urging women leaders who gain entry into Parliament through nomination to use the opportunity to establish themselves at the grassroots and later compete for elective positions. Wangari drew from her own experience, recalling that she entered the Senate as a nominated leader in 2013 and later won the Gilgil parliamentary seat in 2017 after building a political base.
Wangari cited examples of leaders who have successfully transitioned from nominated positions to elective office, including Suba South MP Millie Odhiambo, who was nominated to Parliament between 2007 and 2013 before winning the Suba South parliamentary seat. She encouraged nominated leaders to use their opportunity to expand their political networks and prepare to compete for elective seats instead of seeking repeated nominations.
The debate highlights the ongoing discussions on the role of nominated leaders in Kenya's Parliament and county assemblies. Sifuna's proposal for a two-term limit aims to create opportunities for more people to participate in leadership while ensuring that those selected are effective and accountable. The Senate will continue to consider the motion and other proposals aimed at improving the representation and participation of various groups in the country's leadership.
Key points
- Edwin Sifuna proposes a two-term limit for nominated leaders in Parliament and county assemblies.
- The proposal aims to create opportunities for more people to participate in leadership while ensuring accountability.
- Some senators, including Martha Wangari, suggest that nominated leaders should use their opportunity to establish themselves at the grassroots and later compete for elective positions.
