Senator Omogeni calls for constitutional review to boost devolution
By Kiprono Keileb, July 29, 2025Nyamira Senator Okong’o Omogeni has called for an honest national conversation on revising the 2010 Constitution, saying Kenya must not shy away from amendments that strengthen devolution and accommodate the country’s multicultural fabric.
Speaking during a live political talk show on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Omogeni said Kenyans chose a liberal democracy in 2010, and while it has served the country well, it is within their right to review it if it no longer responds adequately to their needs.
“There’s nothing wrong with revisiting the Constitution to make it work better for Kenyans. When people hear ‘constitutional amendment’, they panic as if it’s like you want to commit murder. But we must stop treating the Constitution like sacred scripture that can’t be improved,” Omogeni said.
“If people get quality health services, better roads and proper sanitation at the county level, there will be less focus on who becomes President. The problem is not the Constitution itself, it’s the fear of even discussing how it can be better,” he noted.
Omogeni insisted that Kenyans deserve governance that reflects their day-to-day realities, especially in counties far from the capital. He emphasised that when county governments function efficiently, they can address local challenges more directly than the national government; this can only be achieved through real devolution.
Kenya’s diversity must be reflected in the Law
Omogeni further called for constitutional reforms that genuinely take into account Kenya’s multicultural and multi-ethnic identity. He warned that sidelining this conversation for too long could fuel political exclusion and social unrest.
“We must stop pretending that the Constitution is perfect. Kenya is a diverse country, and if our laws do not reflect that, they will alienate communities and fuel the same ethnic divisions we claim to fight,” he stated.
His sentiments come at a time when national debates are increasingly centred around inclusivity, equity in resource distribution, and how to end winner-takes-all politics that often divide rather than unite Kenyans.
Gen Z and the demand for a new political culture
Gen Z and the Demand for a New Political Culture
Omogeni’s remarks echo his earlier support for the Gen Z movement’s push for issue-based, tribeless politics. The senator had earlier lauded young Kenyans for rejecting ethnic mobilisation and demanding leadership based on values and performance, not tribal alliances.
“Gen Z is showing us the way they are saying we should vote based on ideals, not ethnic groups. And if we fail to listen, we risk losing a whole generation that believes in unity and purpose,” he said.
He also criticised the government’s handling of the Gen Z-led protests, calling for more engagement rather than suppression.
Omogeni urged political leaders not to weaponise the fear of constitutional amendments, noting that responsible democracies routinely reform their constitutions to meet evolving public needs.
“We must talk to Kenyans honestly. If amending the Constitution will give us a better future, why should we be afraid? What matters is whether those amendments are in the best interests of the people, not politicians,” he concluded.
With rising calls for constitutional change from various quarters, including on matters such as the cost of governance, strengthening oversight, and ensuring.