Kenya’s newspapers reported on Wednesday, June 2, about the government's initiative to shield key public institutions and facilities from demonstrations.
In another development, the High Court in Nairobi persisted in urging the security authorities to disclose the location of attorney and online writer Ndiangui Kinyagia.
1. Daily Nation
A legislative proposal currently under consideration in the House was highlighted by the newspaper; it aims to make illegal entry into major governmental facilities during demonstrations a punishable offense.
If the proposed legislation currently before Parliament becomes law, individuals who participate in demonstrations within unauthorized zones may face penalties including fines reaching as much as KSh 100,000 or imprisonment lasting up to three months upon conviction.
The Public Order Amendment Bill, 2025, sponsored by Nairobi woman representative, Esther Passaris, proposes to designate three areas where protesters will not be allowed to hold public meetings or demonstrations.
According to the bill, these areas are: within 100 meters of parliament buildings, protected areas (such as the State House) and court buildings.
Should the legislation pass, the Interior Cabinet Secretary—working together with local authorities—will have authority to identify designated zones within large urban centers for organizing demonstrations.
This means that protesters will be required to gather only in those designated areas, and if they have complaints, their leaders will be the ones to meet with them to listen to them.
According to the bill, individuals who breach these regulations commit a crime and may face penalties including a maximum fine of KSh 100,000, up to three months' imprisonment, or both upon conviction.
Nevertheless, certain lawmakers have started voicing worries regarding the legislation, arguing that putting it into effect would be challenging within Kenya's practical realities.
The Nyakach Member of Parliament, Aduma Owuor, stated that this legislation will not address the underlying issues raised by the demonstrators. Meanwhile, Rosa Buyu, the MP for Kisumu West, argued that designating a particular zone for protests weakens their impact.