Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga has come out strongly to condemn any attempts to tamper with Kenya’s Constitution by increasing the presidential term limit. Speaking with visible anger, Raila dismissed such proposals as dangerous, selfish, and a direct threat to democracy.
“Anybody trying to bring up the debate about increasing the presidential term limit is a big fool. This level of selfishness cannot be allowed to see the light of day,” Raila fumed, making it clear that he will not entertain such discussions.
His remarks come amid murmurs in political circles suggesting that some leaders are toying with the idea of pushing constitutional amendments that could pave the way for longer stays in power. Raila, however, was categorical that the two-term presidential cap was a cornerstone of Kenya’s democratic progress and must remain untouched.
The veteran politician warned that extending presidential terms would set a dangerous precedent, allowing leaders to cling to power at the expense of the people’s will. He emphasized that Kenya’s democracy had been built on hard-fought struggles, and it was unacceptable for anyone to roll back those gains for personal ambition.
Raila’s tough stance has reignited public debate, with many Kenyans praising him for boldly speaking out, while others argue that political realities often overshadow such pronouncements. Still, his words have sent a strong message to those floating the idea: that Kenya’s democratic safeguards are not up for casual negotiation.
For a country where leadership transitions have historically been tense, Raila’s firm opposition to constitutional manipulation underscores a broader concern — that the stability of the nation must never be sacrificed for the selfish interests of a few.
