The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party had suggested to the National Dialogue Committee that leaders who engage in violent street protests should be barred from vying in elections.
According to the ruling party, the move would help in reducing cases of violent protests that were leading to loss of lives and destruction of property in the country.
President William Ruto’s party has maintained that the right to participate in peaceful demonstrations in Kenya should be regulated.
“The legislation should specifically address and provide mechanisms to bar political leaders who lead violent demonstrations from vying in any elective position,” said UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala.
Malala told the committee that before organizers of peaceful protests are given permission, they should first explain the reason for picketing, and specify the time and venue for the protests.
He added that having a proper legal framework for regulating demonstrations will make organizers accountable for the outcome of violent protests.
“This will promote sanity and political order in our political class,” said Malala.
The UDA’s proposal emerged a few months after Azimio leaders organized countrywide anti-government protests over the high cost of living in the country.
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If implemented, the proposal will impact seriously the Azimio leaders who were eyeing elective seats in the 2027 general elections and other subsequent polls.
The recent anti-government protests were being organized by Azimio leaders including Raila Odinga, Martha Karua, and Kalonzo Musyoka.
As a result, some of the opposition MPs including Babu Owino (Embakasi East), and Anthony Oluoch (Mathare) were arraigned in court for allegedly sponsoring violent street protests in Nairobi.
