MP Proposes Changes in Presidential Election

Kibwezi MP Mwengi Mutuse has suggested a change to the governance system, specifically in regard to the Presidential election.

In a letter addressed to the National Dialogue Committee (NADOC), Mutuse proposes that the creation of the Office of the Leader of Opposition within a presidential system of government is unnecessary, as he believes that such an office already exists, thus eliminating the need for constitutional amendments. He recommends allowing presidential candidates to also run for membership in the National Assembly, to address opposition concerns of inclusion.

Mutuse argues that in the Kenyan Constitution adopted in 2010, the term Official Opposition was replaced with Minority Party, and the Leader of Government Business became the Leader of the Majority Party. If Mutuse’s proposals are accepted by NADOC and ratified by Parliament, presidential candidates would once again be able to vie for the top seat as Members of Parliament, reviving a tradition that was discontinued after the 2007 general election. Mutuse emphasizes that the current constitution does not prohibit a return to this practice.

Mutuse argues that this change would promote inclusivity and prevent popular presidential candidates from being left out if they don’t win the election. Currently, the Leader of the Majority is chosen by the party with the most parliamentary representation, but it is possible for a President to win the election while their party doesn’t secure a majority in Parliament. However, Mutuse’s proposal doesn’t address what would happen if the President’s opponent became the Leader of the Majority in Parliament.