Economy

MPs reject Bill on pay for riot damages

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Parliament buildings in Nairobi. FILE PHOTO | NMG

Legislators have rejected a Bill that would have compelled organisers of public demonstrations or meetings to pay for damaged property whenever such gatherings turned violent.

The National Assembly rejected the Bill on grounds that it is unconstitutional as it limits rights or fundamental freedom granted in the Supreme law.

Article 37 of the Constitution stipulates that every person has the right, peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket, and to present petitions to public authorities.

Members of the Justice and Legal Affairs committee (JLAC) and the committee on Administration and National Security led MPs in rejecting Bill sponsored by Ruiru MP Simon King’ara.

The Bill contained a provision for organisers of public meetings or public processions leading to loss of property, life or earnings to take responsibility and compensate the affected persons.

Mr King’ara said his intentions was to curb violence, mugging, looting and crime that characterise some demonstrations.

The Kenya Private Sector Alliance(Kepsa) reported in 2017 that an estimated Sh700 billion was lost by businesses during the electioneering period.

The Bill sought to provide stiff penalties for organisers and seal existing loopholes in obtaining police clearance for public gatherings.