Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has renewed calls for a constitutional referendum to formalize the Office of the Prime Minister and the leader of the official opposition, arguing that such reforms are essential for national unity and regional representation.
Speaking recently, Mudavadi emphasized the need for constitutional review fifteen years after the 2010 Constitution was promulgated. He proposed that Kenya should hold the referendum alongside the 2027 general election, arguing this approach would be cost-effective and capitalize on existing electoral infrastructure.
“For a unified face of Kenya in government, we must formalize the Office of the Prime Minister and the leader of the official opposition,” Mudavadi stated. “This will ensure every region sees its face in government.”
The proposal stems from recommendations made by the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO), which was formed following political tensions and protests.
The committee’s report, adopted by the National Assembly in February 2024, suggested creating a Prime Minister position that would be nominated with parliamentary approval and appointed by the President.
Mudavadi believes that combining the referendum with the general election would not significantly increase expenses while allowing Kenyans to simultaneously vote on political leadership and constitutional matters.
Courtesy File/Kenyans
He maintains that addressing issues of inclusivity and government structure through the ballot box represents a democratic approach to resolving longstanding concerns about representation.
However, the proposal faces significant hurdles. A parliamentary committee has noted that creating these offices would fundamentally alter Kenya’s presidential system and Parliament’s functions, making a referendum constitutionally necessary rather than optional.
The push for constitutional reform reflects ongoing debates about Kenya’s governance structure and the challenge of ensuring all regions feel adequately represented in government.
Supporters argue the changes would promote political stability and inclusivity, while critics worry about potential complications to the current system.