Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has reacted to Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku’s decision to withdraw his controversial bill to regulate demonstrations.
This comes amid ongoing anti-government protests in the country which have entered their fourth day.
In his response, Omtatah quoted Micah White, the co-creator of Occupy Wall Street, to emphasize the importance of protests in a democratic society.
In his quote, Micah highlights the belief that protests are a key expression of people’s power in a democracy.
“When citizens of nominally democratic governments protest in the streets they are performing the foundational myth of democracy: the faith that the people possess ultimate sovereignty over their governments,” the quote stated.
Ruku’s Anti-demos bill
MP Ruku announced the decision to withdraw the Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024 (National Assembly Bills No. 28 of 2024) on Thursday, June 27, 2024, citing public opposition.
Ruku said that he had listened to the concerns of Kenyans, who expressed disinterest in having protests regulated by new legislation.
“I have heard the voice of Kenyans and therefore decided to withdraw the Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024. I will officially be writing to the Speaker of the National Assembly,” Ruku wrote on his X account on Thursday.
The proposed bill aimed to tighten regulations on public demonstrations across Kenya.
According to Ruku, the legislation was intended to enhance the safety and security of protestors, non-protestors, and businesses, aligning with Article 37 of the Constitution.
“The Bill was founded on the need to give effect to article 37 of the Constitution and to enhance the safety and security of the protestors, non-protestors and businesses. However, I have agreed with the will of Kenyans that the bill be withdrawn. #MaandamanoBill,” he stated.
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