The public is invited to comment on the proposed law aimed at regulating Maandamanos

Members of Parliament have initiated a public participation process to prepare a bill to take strict measures against protesters.

The bill, called the Assembly and Demonstration Bill 2024, was sponsored by Mbire North MP Geoffrey Ruku and seeks to impose stricter regulations on public demonstrations across the country.

The bill includes provisions that give law enforcement broad powers to manage protests deemed to disrupt public order. It proposes tough penalties, including fines of up to 100,000 Kenyan shillings and possible jail time for offenders.

The Secretary to the National Assembly, Samuel Njoroge, issued a notice inviting the public to submit their views on the bill through a memorandum. He asked for feedback to be provided by Monday, September 9, 2024, through postal addresses, personal delivery or email.

The bill, which is under the responsibility of the Parliamentary Administration and Internal Security Department, outlines a strict code of conduct for demonstrations. It prohibits banners, slogans, speeches or songs that incite hatred based on cultural, racial, gender, language or religious differences.

The bill would also prohibit actions or speech that could incite violence against an individual or group. The bill would also seek to ban the wearing of masks or clothing that covers the face, the wearing of clothing that resembles police or military uniforms, and the carrying of weapons during protests.

Amid the youth-led protests against the government against the Finance Bill 2024, Geoffrey Ruku announced that he had heard the public’s concerns about the new regulations. Democratic Party MP Ruku said he would write to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula, to formally withdraw the bill.

Ruku explained that the bill is aimed at upholding Section 37 of the Constitution and enhancing the safety of protesters, non-protesters and businesses.

Although he promised to withdraw the bill, the move by the public to participate suggests that he has not fully followed through on his promise.