Tiaty MP William Kamket Predicts Extended Presidency for Ruto
Tiaty Member of Parliament William Kamket has stirred political debate with his bold prediction that President William Ruto could potentially rule Kenya for 24 years. Speaking during a public address, Kamket expressed unwavering confidence in Ruto’s leadership, hinting at a possible push for constitutional amendments to extend his presidency beyond the traditional two-term limit.
Kamket, serving his second term as Tiaty MP, emphasized that Baringo County, known for producing long-serving leaders like the late President Daniel Arap Moi, has a legacy of political endurance and resilience. Moi ruled Kenya for 24 years, and Kamket believes history could repeat itself under President Ruto.
Kamket Confident in Ruto’s Second Term Victory
Addressing critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration, Kamket dismissed their skepticism and asserted that President Ruto’s victory in the last general election reflected the will of the people. He challenged Ruto to remain steadfast despite the mounting criticisms.
“People should stop the pride. You are a President rightfully elected, sit on that seat well. The second term you will be elected, and you will bounce back like electricity,” Kamket stated.
His remarks come at a time when the Kenya Kwanza government faces scrutiny over economic challenges, rising costs of living, and accusations of unmet promises. However, Kamket remains optimistic that Ruto’s administration will deliver on its pledges and secure overwhelming public support in 2027.
Hinting at a Possible Term Extension
Kamket’s most striking statement was his suggestion of a possible term extension for President Ruto. Drawing parallels with the late President Moi’s 24-year rule, the Tiaty MP claimed that Baringo County has the political acumen to sustain a president in power for an extended period.
“If they joke, you know I come from the county of 24 years. Baringo County, we know about 24 years, we know how to manufacture a president to survive for 24 years. If they joke, we can tell you to extend past the two terms,” Kamket boldly declared.
Such sentiments are likely to ignite heated discussions about Kenya’s constitutional limits on presidential terms. The Kenyan Constitution currently caps presidential terms at two five-year stints, but political maneuvering to extend or amend term limits is not unprecedented in Africa.
Defending the Kenya Kwanza Government
Kamket also came to the defense of the Kenya Kwanza government against accusations of state-sponsored abductions. These allegations were raised by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who accused the state of employing heavy-handed tactics against dissenting voices.
Kamket, however, turned the tables, accusing Natembeya of complicity in extrajudicial killings during the previous regime and blaming him for perpetuating insecurity in the volatile Kerio Valley region.
“The insecurity in Kerio Valley is not a result of the current government’s failure but rather a consequence of past mismanagement and poor leadership,” Kamket said.
Praising Government Efforts in North Rift
Despite the criticisms facing the Kenya Kwanza administration, Kamket lauded the government’s ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the North Rift region. The area, historically plagued by cattle rustling and bandit attacks, has seen improved security measures under Ruto’s leadership.
Kamket praised the deployment of security personnel, introduction of modern surveillance technology, and community engagement initiatives aimed at fostering peace and coexistence in the troubled region.
“The government has managed to silence the guns in the North Rift, something previous administrations struggled with. This shows a strong commitment to addressing historical injustices and restoring normalcy,” he added.
Political Implications of Kamket’s Remarks
Kamket’s statements carry significant political weight and could shape the narrative around Ruto’s presidency in the coming years. While some may dismiss his remarks as political rhetoric, others see them as a calculated strategy to rally support behind the President ahead of the next general election.
The idea of a constitutional amendment to extend Ruto’s presidency is bound to provoke intense debate across political and civil society circles. Kenya’s history with constitutional amendments and power extensions is marked by resistance and public outcry, as seen during the Moi and Kibaki eras.
Public Reaction and Political Analysts’ Views
Political analysts have been quick to weigh in on Kamket’s remarks. Some view his comments as reflective of growing confidence within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, while others see them as premature and potentially divisive.
Critics argue that discussing term extensions diverts attention from pressing issues such as economic recovery, healthcare reform, and education challenges. On the other hand, supporters believe Kamket’s confidence signals internal stability and alignment within the ruling coalition.
Conclusion
William Kamket’s prediction of a potential 24-year presidency for William Ruto has added a new dimension to Kenya’s political discourse. While the possibility of amending the Constitution remains speculative, Kamket’s remarks cannot be ignored given his political stature and historical parallels with the Moi era.
Whether this prediction materializes or not, one thing remains clear: the political landscape in Kenya is set for an intriguing and potentially turbulent journey in the coming years.
As the 2027 general election approaches, all eyes will be on President Ruto and his administration’s performance, as well as the political maneuvers of his allies, including vocal figures like William Kamket.
