September 9, 2008
One- On- One
The Standard
Two weeks ago, Igembe South MP Mithika Linturi held a news conference at Parliament Buildings where he disclosed that he had filed a Motion seeking to limit the age of presidential candidates to 65. Mr Linturi on his views.
QUESTION: Why do you want to set an age limit for those seeking to be president?
ANSWER: We want to have vibrant leaders at the helm and end the culture where top leadership remains the preserve of old men and women.
QUESTION: Are there countries where such a law has been applied?
ANSWER: In most countries, the terms are determined by the constitution. If the constitution stipulates two or other terms in office, it should be respected.
QUESTION: You supported President Kibaki’s re-election despite knowing he was over 65. Why have you changed?
ANSWER: I have never supported Kibaki and my political record is open for scrutiny. Those saying so are simply attempting to divert attention.
QUESTION: How did you arrive at 65 as the age limit and not 50 or 64?
ANSWER: These are the issues that will come out when the Bill is debated in Parliament. Be patient.
QUESTION: Why set the limit for presidential candidates and not for MPs and councillors?
ANSWER: The Bill will exhaustively tackle the issue. Otherwise, I encourage the public to debate it and give me feedback on what more needs to be done.
QUESTION: Some say it would require a constitutional amendment and, if so, what does that mean to you?
ANSWER: These are the issues I said earlier need to be left for debate in the House.
QUESTION: How would the age limit work in a parliamentary system where government is headed by the leader of a majority party?
ANSWER: I want MPs to deliberate on these issues in Parliament. I would not want to talk about them in the media. Just wait until Parliament reconvenes.
QUESTION: Your critics say you are targeting specific contenders?
ANSWER: Absolutely not. Even those saying I’m targeting Raila Odinga are off the mark. Raila is my political hero and role model. I am simply pushing to ensure the retirement age of the President is brought in line with that of other constitutional office holders and civil servants.
QUESTION: What good would come out of having younger presidents?
ANSWER: It will end the culture of making Parliament a dumping ground for retirees who end up seeking higher political offices.
QUESTION: What are the chances of this Bill passing in Parliament?
ANSWER: I have received a lot of support on the Bill and I’m confident MPs will see the sense in it. Let’s wait and see.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
LINTURI ON AGE LIMIT FOR PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES
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