Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has introduced a bill proposing amendments to Kenya's public order laws aimed at restricting protests near key government installations, including Parliament, State House, and other protected areas. The bill seeks to establish a 100-metre radius around these locations within which public gatherings and demonstrations would be prohibited. Passaris justifies the bill by citing the circulation of calls to invade Parliament and State House online, which she characterizes as non-peaceful protests that undermine rights. The proposed legislation echoes earlier protest regulation efforts, notably those advanced by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku in 2024 and Senator Kindiki, who also advocated for designated protest zones. Passaris's bill has faced criticism from various quarters, including opposition politicians, civil society members, and legal experts, who argue that it restricts citizens' rights to peaceful assembly and petitioning Parliament. Some critics contend that the bill aligns with government interests to suppress protests rather than address underlying issues. Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku expressed support for the bill, stating it aligns with efforts to ensure demonstrations remain peaceful and orderly. Legal professionals have raised concerns about the bill's constitutionality and its potential to erode hard-won democratic gains. The debate continues amid calls for the government to focus on identifying individuals who incite violence during protests rather than curtailing the right to protest itself.
Esther Passaris shelves Protest Bill after public outcry https://t.co/5Yjl4yDZue
PAUSING THE PUBLIC ORDER (AMENDMENT) BILL 2025 “I have decided to pause the pre-publication process of the Public Order (Amendment) Bill 2025 to allow for national dialogue and wide public engagement. This is an invitation to co-create legislation that safeguards constitutional https://t.co/kVB2UskM8k
MP Esther Passaris halts publication of the controversial Public Order Amendment Bill 2025 to allow for dialogue on contentious protest regulations. https://t.co/UMST2anZMn