NAIROBI, Kenya — The Senate is considering a constitutional amendment that would bar former county governors from contesting for elective positions for five years after leaving office, in a move aimed at strengthening accountability and oversight.
The proposal, contained in the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2026, seeks to prevent ex-governors from vying for seats as Members of Parliament or Members of County Assemblies immediately after completing their terms.
According to the Bill, the restriction is designed to allow oversight bodies sufficient time to conclude audits and investigations into a governor’s tenure without potential interference.
“Barring former county governors from vying for elections will allow for any ongoing accountability processes related to administration and financial management affairs of the county to be completed,” the draft law states.
Under Kenya’s governance framework, governors are required to account for their administrative and financial decisions before both county assemblies and the Senate.
Audit reports prepared by the Office of the Auditor-General are submitted to these institutions for scrutiny in line with the Public Audit Act.
Senators backing the proposal argue that a mandatory waiting period would ensure that any irregularities or governance concerns are fully addressed before former governors seek fresh mandates.
The Bill also flags the risk of conflicts of interest if former governors transition directly into oversight roles.
It warns that individuals elected to the Senate or county assemblies shortly after leaving office could influence or interfere with inquiries touching on their previous administrations.
“Oversight bodies would have adequate time to inquire into any matters arising from the tenure of a previous holder of the office of county governor without interference,” the Bill states.
Proponents further argue that the measure would enhance voter decision-making by ensuring that the public has access to complete accountability records before casting ballots.
“Voters would have a reference point in making an informed choice on the candidate’s suitability for another elective office since all accountability processes would have been completed,” the proposal notes.
The Bill was read for the first time in the Senate on March 26 and has since been referred to the Standing Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights for review.
The committee is expected to conduct public participation in line with constitutional requirements.
Oral submissions will be received on April 30 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) Amphitheatre in Nairobi, while written memoranda can be submitted to the Office of the Clerk of the Senate or via email until May 8.
