Karua Reveals One-Term Presidential Ambition, Promises to Lay Solid Foundation

Nairobi, Kenya — September 27, 2025 (EAT).

Veteran politician Martha Karua, leader of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), has declared that she intends to serve only one term should she succeed as President, pledging to focus on structural reforms and institutional strengthening rather than political longevity.

The Latest

• Karua made the revelation during a speech at the PLP National Delegates Conference at Ufungamano House. She framed her bid not as a traditional quest for power but as a mission to stabilize Kenya’s governance for future leaders.

• “I do not seek to hand over a legacy of power. I seek to hand over a system that works for all,” said Karua.

• She emphasised that her presidential term would prioritise judicial reform, anti-corruption institutions, and economic inclusion, rather than personal political entrenchment.

• The PLP leadership confirmed that her speech set the tone for the party’s manifesto drafting process, where “one-term presidency” will feature as a constitutional commitment.

Context in Brief

• In Kenya’s history, no president has voluntarily limited themselves to one term. The move is being interpreted as a break from dynastic politics and indefinite incumbency.

• The PLP has consistently positioned itself as a reformist, anti-dynasty alternative to traditional party machines.

• Coalition prospects ahead of 2027 remain fluid, and such a promise can sway voters fatigued by prolonged tenure in power.

Implications

• Credibility test: Karua will need to outline enforceable mechanisms (e.g. constitutional amendment, binding contracts) to constrain successor ambitions.

• Coalition leverage: The one-term promise may appeal to reform-minded voters and smaller parties seeking checks against eternal redeployment of power.

• Opposition dynamics: Other presidential hopefuls may feel pressured to counter with similar term-limits or clarify their tenure plans.

• Institutional focus: Emphasis on building systems over personalities could shift campaign debates toward governance, not patronage.