Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris is at the center of a fresh political storm following her proposal to amend the Public Order Act to restrict demonstrations near Parliament and other protected areas. The amendment seeks to keep protesters at least 100 meters away from such locations and proposes the creation of official zones where public gatherings may be held.
Passaris defended the proposed law before the National Assembly Security and Administration Committee, saying the changes are intended to maintain public order and protect the dignity of key institutions. She denied that the bill would undermine constitutional freedoms, stating that her aim is to promote structured and peaceful demonstrations.
Nairobi Women rep Esther Passaris during a past Parliamentary meeting
But the proposal has drawn criticism from civil society groups and fellow lawmakers who argue it could weaken citizens’ right to be heard. Kisumu Woman Representative Rosa Buyu questioned whether protests held away from central locations would have any meaningful impact. Nyakach MP Aduma Awour warned against passing reactionary laws that may be difficult to enforce, especially when driven by recent unrest led by the youth.
Beyond the bill itself, questions are now emerging over Passaris’s record in public office. Critics say her legislative footprint remains unclear even after years in Parliament. Issues central to the role of a woman representative, including maternal care, menstrual health, and protection from gender-based violence, have rarely featured in her public agenda.
Recent developments have also placed Passaris under public scrutiny. After news emerged about the death of blogger Albert Ojwang inside the cells at Central Police Station, Passaris came out in defense of DIG of police Eliud Lagat.
Nairobi women rep Esther Passaris gestures during a past meeting. Photo: PD Source: X
She stated that when the official news broke, not the initial reports circulating on social media, she was attending an event with Lagat. Her response focused on clarifying his whereabouts rather than addressing the concerns surrounding the incident. So far, she has not issued a clear statement on the death, even as the public continues to demand answers and accountability.
Her critics argue that the pattern is becoming familiar. When not defending government positions, she is often associated with proposals that seem to distance leaders from the public rather than draw them closer.
As Parliament considers her protest regulation bill, debate continues not only about the limits of lawful assembly but also about what Nairobi residents should expect from their woman representative. Many are asking what tangible changes she has brought to the lives of the people she represents.
