Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has withdrawn her controversial proposal to regulate public protests following a wave of backlash from religious leaders, civil society groups, and the public. The move comes just days before the anticipated Saba Saba demonstrations, which are being organized by youth groups across the country to demand social justice, accountability, and democratic reforms.
Passaris had initially floated the idea of a bill that would impose stricter controls on public assemblies, including mandatory notifications, location restrictions, and penalties for participation in “unauthorized protests.”
Her proposal was met with fierce criticism, particularly from the clergy, who accused her of undermining constitutional freedoms and attempting to silence citizens’ voices.
During a Sunday church service in Nairobi, a senior cleric openly rebuked Passaris, reminding her of the central role protests played in the country’s fight for multiparty democracy. “You cannot legislate fear into the people. The streets were part of our liberation journey,” the bishop said, drawing cheers from the congregation.
Following the rebuke, Passaris issued a public statement backtracking on the bill and calling for national dialogue. “I have heard the voice of the people and the guidance of the Church. My intention was to protect lives and property, but I acknowledge the concerns raised. Kenya needs healing, not more division,” she said.
The legislator urged the government and protest organizers to come to the table and discuss the underlying issues fueling the unrest, particularly among the youth. Her pivot comes at a crucial moment as Gen Z and millennial activists prepare for what could be one of the largest protest turnouts since the 1990s.
