The government has proposed the public gathering bill, which could restrict demonstrations at certain public institutions and places.
The bill was tabled in the parliament by minister of home affairs, immigration, safety and security Albert Kawana on Wednesday.
Debates on the bill were postponed to September after some members of parliament raised concerns about it.
At its core, the bill prohibits public demonstrations at certain places such as court buildings, the parliament, State House, airports, embassies, and other buildings used as foreign mission offices, military buildings, correctional service buildings, and buildings of the central intelligence service.
Failure to comply would result in a fine of N$5 000 or a prison term not exceeding one year.
The organisers of public gatherings would also be required to give notice to the police five days before such a demonstration, or 48 hours’ notice in special circumstances.
Popular Democratic Movement parliamentarian Maximalliant Katjimune rejected the bill in parliament, describing it as oppressive and regressive.
“We vehemently object to this absurd law which goes against fundamental rights and freedoms as enshrined under Chapter 3 of the Constitution,” Katjimune said.
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