Geoffrey Ruku, a Member of Parliament for Mbeere North, has decided to drop a proposed law that would require the government to regulate public rallies and protests.
The Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024, intends to define the conduct of an assembly or protest as well as the prohibitions that would apply during the event.
These include setting requirements related to public order, safety, and the protection of people’s freedom.
In a post on his X account on Thursday, Ruku said “I have heard the voice of Kenyans and therefore decided to withdraw the Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024.”
“I will officially be writing to the Speaker of the National Assembly to withdraw the Bill.”
The Bill had already sparked anger from a section of Kenyans over concerns it would restrict peaceful demonstrations as guaranteed in Article 37 of the constitution.
In his argument, Ruku said the proposed law was based on “the need to give effect to Article 37 of the Constitution and to enhance the safety and security of the protestors, non-protestors and businesses.”
“However, I have agreed with the will of Kenyans that the bill be withdrawn,” the MP said on Thursday.
