Cabinet Secretary nominee Kithure Kindiki has unveiled plans to establish designated areas for public demonstrations and protests if reappointed to the Interior Ministry.

During his vetting by the National Assembly Committee on Appointments on Thursday August 1, 2024, Kindiki revealed that he had finalized draft regulations for the Public Order Act to address the recent surge in nationwide anti-government protests.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah raised concerns about the confrontations between police and protesters, arguing that the lack of designated “picketing corners” has led to confusion and chaos.

Ichung’wah noted, “Kenyans think they can picket everywhere, including places considered restricted areas.”

The proposed regulations aim to provide a framework for police to effectively manage demonstrations and prevent the recurrence of violence and destruction of property.

Kindiki emphasized the need for protest organizers to inform the police in advance about the expected number of participants.

Kindiki’s proposals include designating public institutions across all arms of the government to provide assembly areas for protesters who wish to demonstrate or present petitions.

The regulations would also require police to escort protesters to ensure they do not disrupt members of the public not participating in the demonstrations.

“It will also designate public institutions in all arms of the government to designate areas in their precincts or in the vicinity of their precincts where a group of protesters who want to demonstrate or present a petition to that public institution can assemble,” Kindiki said.

The ongoing protests, largely organized on social media, have seen youth mobilize for marches to key areas such as the Nairobi city center, Parliament buildings, and the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

The police have faced criticism for using excessive force and violence against Kenyans during these protests.