UNPOPULAR OPINION: What if in Cherargei’s madness, there is a hidden sane point? The case for extended term limits.

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has moved a motion? proposing extending the term of political officers ( President, Governor, Senator, MP and MCA) from five to seven years, and basing on online sentiments, many Kenyans have been quick to object.

?It’s easy to see why.

After all, politicians seem to become our nation’s public enemy number one the minute elections are over. Some severe case of electoral buyer’s remorse.A mix of disillusionment and regret over our voting choices often sets in, and we find ourselves wishing we could hit the reset button on our electoral decisions sooner than later.

The counter-motion by Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thangwa to reduce the term to four years feels like a perfect fix for a nation fed up with its leaders. However, it might be ideal for us to pause and consider Cherargei’s proposal on its own merit. Judging it on face value might prevent us from examining the long-term benefits. Could we be throwing out the baby with the bathwater? What if extending political terms is exactly what we need to set our country on a more stable, prosperous path?

The Trap of Short-Term Thinking

Kenya loves its politics—perhaps too much. Every five years, we go through a whirlwind of campaigns, rallies, and debates. But as exciting as election season can be, it wreaks havoc on our economy. Businesses slow down, investments dry up, and the uncertainty of who will be in power next creates a tense, risk-averse environment. Then there’s the matter of governance itself: our leaders barely have time to settle into their roles before they’re back in campaign mode. Instead of focusing on long-term projects and development, their attention is split between governing and preparing for re-election.

A seven-year term would give leaders the breathing room they need to focus on actual governance. The extension provides more time to implement policies, oversee development projects, and make the necessary adjustments for the good of the nation. It’s no secret that most projects take time to materialize, and a longer term could finally allow us to see our leaders finish what they start.

The Price of "Instant Gratification" Politics

While reducing the term to four years may seem appealing—after all, it would allow us to remove underperforming leaders more quickly—such a system could make Kenya’s political culture even more volatile. Imagine a scenario where leaders spend two out of four years campaigning for their next term, with hardly enough time left to govern effectively. This kind of short-term politicking would encourage leaders to focus on quick fixes rather than sustainable, long-term solutions.

In contrast, a seven-year term would force Kenyans to take their voting decisions more seriously. Knowing that their choice will shape the country for nearly a decade, voters might be less inclined to vote based on tribalism, petty corruption, or other impulsive reasons. A longer term raises the stakes for both the electorate and the candidates. We would demand more accountability, knowing that there’s more time for policies to have a meaningful impact—good or bad.

Stability Over Chaos

The global economy runs on stability, and Kenya has been missing out. Investors are spooked every five years as elections come around, unsure of what to expect from a new administration. A seven-year term would provide more political and economic stability, giving businesses the confidence to invest without the constant fear of sudden political upheaval.

We’ve seen this pattern repeat every election cycle: a dip in economic activity, a cautious wait-and-see attitude from international investors, and stalled development projects. A longer political term would help smooth out these rough cycles, allowing Kenya to maintain steady progress even during what would otherwise be tumultuous election years.

The Safety Net of Term Limits

Opponents of extending political terms argue that it will lead to entrenched, power-hungry politicians overstaying their welcome. But this concern can be easily addressed by applying the two-term limit to all elected offices, not just the presidency and governorship. This would ensure fresh leadership while allowing elected officials sufficient time to make a real difference.

A two-term limit over 14 years offers a balance between continuity and renewal. Leaders would have time to implement their policies without overstaying their welcome or becoming complacent. The system would also foster the growth of new leaders, as the constant churn of elections would give them opportunities to step up.

A New Vision for Kenya

It’s natural to be skeptical of any change that seems to benefit politicians, especially when so many Kenyans feel betrayed by their leaders. But we can’t afford to dismiss this proposal outright. A seven-year term could be the key to ending the cycle of short-term governance, political instability, and economic uncertainty.

The next time we’re tempted to reject the idea of longer political terms, let’s pause to consider the bigger picture. Could this extension, though presented in a seemingly bitter pill, be exactly what Kenya needs to thrive? A longer mandate might just give our leaders the time and space they need to build the prosperous future we all deserve.

Instead of recoiling at the thought of seven years, let’s embrace the possibility that it could lead to a more stable, successful, and united Kenya.Or could it??

Sissey, the CEO 360 Group, is a Communications Strategy consultant.?