Anti-protest Bill: What are the key proposals?

Protesters could soon be barred from demonstrating near Parliament, State House, courts, or police stations under a proposed law that seeks to rein in public dissent near critical state institutions.

The proposed Public Order (Amendment) Bill, 2025—currently under heated debate in Parliament—would grant the Interior Cabinet Secretary sweeping powers to designate specific protest zones, while making it illegal to hold demonstrations within 100 meters of what the law terms as "protected areas."

The Bill, championed by Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, is aimed at addressing the chaos and destruction witnessed in recent protests that rocked the country.

The deadly June 25 demonstrations left at least 16 people dead and caused significant damage to property.