Esther Passaris has found herself in deep trouble after sponsoring a bill that many Kenyans believe was meant to take away their freedom to protest.
The Public Order (Amendment) Bill 2025, which she introduced, was seen by the public as a direct attack on constitutional rights, especially the right to peacefully assemble and speak out against government actions.
The bill proposed banning public gatherings within 100 meters of places like Parliament, courts, and other important government buildings.
It also gave more powers to the Interior Ministry to decide where people could demonstrate, with heavy penalties for those who defied these rules.
Passaris tried to defend the bill by saying it was meant to prevent violence and damage during protests, but most Kenyans didn’t buy that explanation.
Instead, they saw it as a betrayal from a leader they elected to protect their rights, not to silence them.
The backlash was immediate and fierce. Kenyans, especially those from Nairobi, took to social media to express their anger.
One of the loudest voices was Nelson Amenya, who posted a sharp message on X asking Nairobians to recall Passaris. He listed reasons such as her failure to consult the public, her support for police powers over citizen rights, and her silence when protesters were killed.
Many others joined in, some even offering to help collect signatures to remove her from office. It became clear that Passaris had lost the trust of many people she represents.
The fact that her own party, ODM, distanced itself from the bill showed just how serious the backlash was.
Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga spoke against it, saying Kenya doesn’t need such oppressive laws. When the pressure became too much, Passaris paused the bill’s progress on July 7, 2025.
She claimed she wanted to allow for national dialogue, but many believe this was just a way to save face. She made the announcement on Saba Saba Day, a day that marks the struggle for democracy in Kenya, which made her move look even more out of place.
While she tried to calm the public with promises of consultation and engagement, the damage had already been done.
People saw her as someone who tried to use her position to push for laws that benefit those in power while ignoring the cries of the people.
The idea of recalling her has gained momentum, even though the process is tough. Kenyan law requires signatures from 30% of voters in a constituency, with support spread across all wards.
Still, Kenyans are talking seriously about using this process to remove her. The feeling is that if they allow leaders like Passaris to remain in office after such moves, then the door will remain open for future leaders to attempt the same.
Esther Passaris might have hoped to silence protests, but instead she has sparked one of the biggest waves of anger in recent political memory. Her reputation has taken a major hit, and unless she completely withdraws the bill and regains the trust of the public, she risks becoming a symbol of betrayal and failed leadership.
This episode is a clear reminder that Kenyans are watching closely, and they will not stay silent when their freedoms are threatened.
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