Nairobi, Kenya — A new Bill sponsored by Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris seeks to prohibit public gatherings and demonstrations near Parliament, courts, and other protected areas.
The Public Order (Amendment) Bill, 2025, proposes changes to the existing Public Order Act (Cap. 56), introducing new restrictions on the locations of public meetings and processions.
According to the proposal, no public meeting or procession would be allowed within a 100-metre radius of Parliament, protected areas designated under the Protected Areas Act, or courtrooms.
“A person who contravenes the provisions of this section commits an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding KSh100,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, or both,” reads part of the Bill.
The proposed legislation also gives the Cabinet Secretary for Interior the authority to designate assembly and demonstration zones in consultation with county governments, while clearly prescribing areas where public meetings and processions will be prohibited.
Currently, Chapter 56 of the Public Order Act regulates public meetings and processions, requiring organizers to notify police at least three days before the event. The Act stipulates that organizers must provide details, including names, addresses, dates, times (between 6 am and 6 pm), and precise locations of planned gatherings.
The law also outlines procedures for handling unlawful assemblies, with violators facing charges under the Penal Code, which may include imprisonment.
The Bill comes amid heightened public debate on freedom of assembly following recent protests, including those by the Gen Z movement, which have drawn thousands to streets near government installations.
If passed, the proposed changes are expected to further regulate how and where Kenyans can exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
By Were Kelly
