Nairobi Woman Rep Esther Passaris has announced a pause on the pre-publication of the controversial Public Order (Amendment) Bill 2025, following rising public concern.
In a statement on Monday, July 7, the MP said the move is in response to calls from the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) and other groups who have voiced strong objections to the bill.
"I have decided to pause the pre-publication process of the Public Order (Amendment) Bill 2025 to allow for national dialogue and wide public engagement. This is an invitation to co-create legislation that safeguards constitutional freedoms while ensuring public order," she said.
Passaris acknowledged the role of faith-based organizations in advocating for democratic values, while also challenging them to lead by example in promoting peaceful civic expression.
"I thank NCCK for its bold stance in defending civil liberties, but I also challenge our religious institutions to raise the moral bar of public discourse. Let us teach and encourage a culture of peaceful protest, lawful engagement, and respectful disagreement — values rooted in faith and democracy alike," she added.
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The lawmaker called for a balanced approach to governance, where both state authorities and citizens uphold democratic responsibilities.
"A just society is not built by force or fear, but by accountability on all sides from citizens to state officers. It is my hope that this conversation will shift from confrontation to collaboration," she further said.
Passaris urged Kenyans to draw inspiration from the spirit of Saba Saba, advocating for unity and shared responsibility in building a better nation.
"As we honour the spirit of Saba Saba; let us move forward not in anger, but in shared accountability; each of us doing our part to secure Kenya’s promise of prosperity," she concluded.
Passaris introduced the Bill as a response to the Gen Z protests that erupted during the Finance Bill demonstrations, and their anniversary in June 2025.
The legislation seeks to prohibit any public assembly, including protests and marches, within a 100‑metre radius of sensitive state facilities, including the Parliament, courts, and State House.
Under the Bill, individuals who breach these 'buffer zones' may face up to three months in prison, a fine of Ksh100,000, or both.
Furthermore, it empowers the Interior Cabinet Secretary, in consultation with county governments, to designate specific zones where public gatherings may legally be held.
