Passaris Proposes Ban on Public Gatherings Near Parliament and Protected Areas in New Bill
According to the proposal, public meetings or processions would be banned within a 100-metre radius of the Parliament precincts, protected areas under the Protected Areas Act, and courtrooms.
Nairobi Woma Woman Representative Esther Passaris. Photo/ Eastleigh Voice.
By Juliet Jerotich
A new legislative proposal by Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris aims to restrict public gatherings in close proximity to Parliament and other protected areas through amendments to the Public Order Act.
The Public Order (Amendment) Bill, 2025 seeks to revise provisions in the existing Public Order Act (Cap. 56) by introducing regulations that define designated zones for assemblies and demonstrations.
According to the proposal, public meetings or processions would be banned within a 100-metre radius of the Parliament precincts, protected areas under the Protected Areas Act, and courtrooms.
“Anyone who violates this provision shall be committing an offence and, upon conviction, will be subject to a fine of up to Sh100,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, or both,” the Bill stipulates.
The proposed legislation also grants authority to the Cabinet Secretary, in coordination with county governments, to officially designate specific zones for public assemblies and demonstrations. It further outlines prohibited areas where such gatherings would not be allowed.
The current Public Order Act (Cap. 56) mandates that police be given at least three days’ notice before any public meeting or procession. Organizers must provide specific details, including names, contact information, dates, times (between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.), and the location of the event.
Additionally, the Act deals with issues related to unlawful assemblies, prescribing penalties under the Penal Code for individuals found guilty of participating in illegal gatherings. Such offences may lead to criminal charges and possible imprisonment.
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