Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku Withdraws Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024
Mbeere North Member of Parliament Geoffrey Ruku has announced the withdrawal of the Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024, also known as the Maandamano Bill. The announcement was made via a statement on his official X account, where MP Ruku cited the public’s overwhelming disapproval as the primary reason for his decision.
“I have heard the voice of Kenyans and therefore decided to withdraw the Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024 (National Assembly Bills No. 28 of 2024). I will officially be writing to the Speaker of the National Assembly to withdraw the #MaandamanoBill,” Ruku posted.
Ruku emphasized that the bill was originally intended to enhance the safety and security of protesters, non-protesters, and businesses during demonstrations. However, he acknowledged the public’s strong objections and decided to respect their wishes by withdrawing the bill.
“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 However, I have agreed with the will of Kenyans that the bill be withdrawn.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 added.
The Assembly and Demonstration Act, 2024, outlined various regulations for organizing and conducting public assemblies and demonstrations. It required organizers to notify the regulating officer at least three but not more than 14 days before the event, including details of the event and the organizer’s information.
The regulating officer could reject the notice if another assembly was scheduled for the same time and place and impose conditions for public safety and order. Organizers and participants would be jointly liable for any property damage caused during the event.
The bill also mandated that organizers appoint marshals to control the assembly or demonstration and prohibited actions such as inciting hatred, encouraging violence, wearing disguises or uniforms similar to those of security forces, and possessing weapons.
Under the bill, the police were granted powers to manage and restrict assemblies to maintain order and protect people and property. Additionally, the Cabinet Secretary was empowered to make regulations for the Act’s implementation. The bill proposed repealing sections 5 and 6 of the Public Order Act.
