UDA MP Hints at Major Constitutional Changes Ahead of 2027 Polls: "Mambo Yametokea"
- UDA and ODM leaders are reportedly exploring constitutional changes after their first-ever joint parliamentary meeting
- Nominated MP Jackson Kosgei confirmed that talks may lead to executive restructuring and possible referendums
- The said discussions also cover devolution, funding for counties, and the implementation of the NADCO report
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TUKO.co.ke journalist Harry Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya
Kenya may once again find itself debating the shape of its constitution, with political leaders hinting at sweeping amendments that could alter the balance of power at the top.
Source: Facebook
This is according to United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nominated MP Jackson Kosgei, who represents persons with disabilities and special interest group.
He revealed during a radio interview on Tuesday, August 19 that ongoing talks between UDA and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are likely to produce constitutional proposals.
He explained that the changes under consideration touch on governance, devolution, and the structure of the executive.
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Will Ruto, Raila join hands to change the Constitution?
Responding to a question from the host on whether Kenyans should prepare for possible amendments once the discussions conclude, Kosgei affirmed.
“Yes, we are considering such steps, including the possibility of a referendum,” he said.
The lawmaker drew parallels with earlier attempts such as the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), saying leaders are once more questioning whether the current presidential system serves the country well.
He suggested that expanding the executive or adopting a hybrid system could be part of the debate.
“First, it concerns leadership and how the country is governed. Like with the BBI discussions, we are asking ourselves as Kenyans if the executive should be expanded, whether the system should remain purely presidential, shift towards a parliamentary model, or take on other adjustments,” the MP added.
Kosgei added that devolution is also under scrutiny, with conversations focusing on whether county governments are adequately supported under current laws.
He noted that leaders want to ensure fair funding for every county through budget allocations, arguing that constitutional adjustments might be needed to secure this.
What was discussed during UDA-ODM meeting?
His remarks came a day after ODM and UDA lawmakers held a historic joint parliamentary group meeting at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen.
The session, attended by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, resolved to fast-track the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report and a ten-point reform agenda agreed earlier in the year.
The meeting produced an implementation matrix with clear timelines, signalling the two sides’ growing cooperation after years of political rivalry.
The idea of constitutional change has long found favour among Ruto’s allies.
Some of them, led by Nandi senator Samson Cherargei, have repeatedly called for amendments, including proposals to extend the presidential term limit.
Source: UGC
Why did BBI initiative fail?
Kenyans will remember that in 2020, then-president Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila spearheaded the BBI process.
It sought to expand the executive, create new constituencies, and reform the judiciary.
The initiative, however, collapsed after the courts ruled it unconstitutional.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
