Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has issued a robust defense of her political alignment with President William Ruto and explained the intent behind her controversial Public Order (Amendment) Bill 2025.

The contentious bill which has already drawn public criticism from Kenyans especially the youth and human rights groups seeks to ban public meetings or processions within a 100-metre radius of Parliament buildings, courtrooms and areas protected under the Protected Areas Act.

In a statement shared on her official X social media platform account, Passaris seeks to justify her move by linking the legislation to public safety and stability.

“My Public Order Bill is grounded in values of protecting lives, upholding order, and ensuring that freedom does not descend into chaos,” Passaris wrote.

The bill stipulates that a person who contravenes its provisions commits an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding Ksh100,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, or both. This has however angered many Kenyans with some political analysts calling out the legislator for what they term as a deliberate move to suppress freedom.

“One of the mistakes which some political analysts make is to think that their enemies should be our enemies.” Passaris invoked Nelson Mandela in her defense.

She explicitly affirmed her support for President Ruto stating that true leadership is about progress and not grudges.

“I will not inherit the burden of enmity or be forced into battles that will not deliver for my people, I stand firmly with William Ruto because leadership is about progress, not personal grudges,” she said.

Passaris also lashed out at her potential competitors challenging them to offer meaningful solutions rather than tearing up the foundations she has built.

“Those who want my seat must show what they can offer, not attempt to destroy what I’ve built. True leaders rise by lifting others, not by pulling them down,” she said.

While Passaris seeks to firmly anchor her leadership approach in coalition-building and faith-based resolve through this bill, Kenyans continue to advocate for protest rights and security.