By Cabinet has approved a further extension of the term of office of Local Council I and II, as well as Women Councils, for a period not exceeding 180 days, citing the need to maintain continuity in local governance.
The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting held on December 15, 2025, in line with the Constitution and the Local Government Act, Cap 138.
The term of office for administrative unit councils initially expired on June 28, 2025. Following Cabinet approval, the Minister of Local Government extended their tenure for 180 days from June 29, 2025. That extension is due to lapse on December 30, 2025.
Cabinet has now sanctioned an additional extension of up to 180 days, effective December 31, 2025, to ensure that Local Council I and II structures remain operational as the government prepares for the next electoral processes.
Government officials argue that the extension is necessary to avoid a leadership vacuum at the grassroots level, where Local Councils play a key role in service delivery, community mobilisation, and local dispute resolution.
The decision also covers Women’s Councils, whose mandates were similarly affected by the expiry of the administrative unit councils’ term.
While the Cabinet has not announced a specific date for elections at the village and parish levels, the extension provides legal cover for the councils to continue operating as the government finalises administrative and electoral arrangements.
The extension comes amid ongoing debates over delays in conducting local council elections, with some civil society groups previously raising concerns about prolonged extensions without a clear roadmap for polls.
Government maintains that the move is temporary and strictly within the legal framework, and that further guidance will be issued in due course.
