By Shadrack Nyakoe
The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) has proposed a ban on noise-making devices, such as vuvuzelas and whistles, during public demonstrations.
The move, which is part of a series of suggested amendments to the Public Order Act, aims to ensure that protests remain peaceful and do not disrupt public order.
James Nduna, the NPSC’s legal director, explained that while the right to peaceful assembly is guaranteed under the Constitution, the use of noise-making devices at protests often creates disturbances.
He argued that these devices not only affect those taking part in the demonstrations but also interfere with the public who are going about their daily activities. The commission believes that such noise is an unnecessary disruption that undermines public order and peace.
The proposed amendments are seen as an effort to strike a balance between protecting the right to protest and maintaining public order. By limiting the use of loud instruments during protests, the NPSC hopes to prevent protests from escalating into disruptive events that may affect the broader community.
This include avoiding situations where non-participants are drawn into protests simply because of the noise, or where protests become more aggressive due to the heightened emotions that such noise may provoke.
The proposed changes are currently under review by the National Assembly’s Committee on Administration and Internal Security. If passed, they could significantly alter the way protests are conducted, reducing the impact of sound-based disturbances in public spaces.
While the proposal has not yet been enacted, it is expected to spark debate on the balance between the right to demonstrate and the need to maintain public peace.
Public consultations will follow before any legislation is passed, giving citizens an opportunity to weigh in on the proposed restrictions.