Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga has urged Kenyans to gather at Kamukunji Grounds on Saba Saba Day in honour of those who gave their lives in the struggle for democratic reforms, describing the event as a moment for reflection and unity, not political posturing.

Speaking from his Karen residence on Sunday, Odinga said the tribute at Kamukunji will serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the 1990 Saba Saba protests that ushered Kenya into multiparty democracy.

“If we are going to remember Saba Saba, then let’s go to Kamukunji. The road should lead to Kamukunji. I have always gone there, even quietly, on Saba Saba Day to remember those who lost their lives,” he said.

True Meaning Diluted

Odinga decried the growing distortion of Saba Saba's meaning, saying some politicians had turned it into a self-serving tool.

“Kamukunji has a very historical meaning. If you want to remember Saba Saba, then go to Kamukunji. If we are talking about protesting, where is it going to start and end? Let us go to Kamukunji and remember the rights of those who died fighting for the people,” he said.

He stressed the importance of Kamukunji in Kenya’s political history, calling it the birthplace of major movements. “Saba Saba was meant to bring people together for a common cause and Kamukunji has hosted key rallies for reforms.

The first rallies for pre-independence and second liberation struggles were all held at Kamukunji,” he said.

Multiparty Democracy

This year marks 35 years since the historic July 7, 1990 protest, when opposition leaders including Martin Shikuku and James Orengo led crowds demanding political pluralism.

The protest set the stage for the repeal of Section 2A of the Constitution in 1991, ending KANU's monopoly under President Daniel arap Moi and ushering in multiparty democracy.

Odinga, who has consistently participated in Saba Saba commemorations over the years, said that despite these milestones, the vision behind the movement remains unfulfilled.

“We have not achieved what Saba Saba intended. Violation of human rights is still a challenge in the country, police brutality is there, and the economy has not performed as we expected. Saba Saba was meant to bring people together for a common cause: change,” he said.

Unresolved Injustices

He pointed out that despite the 2010 Constitution, many of the injustices that sparked the original protests still exist, including economic hardship, violent suppression of protests, and abuse of power by security agencies.

Odinga’s decision to lead this year’s Kamukunji gathering comes amid sharp criticism from Gen Z protestors, who have questioned his recent political cooperation with President William Ruto.

Many say the alliance has diluted his long-standing opposition stance and undermined demands for justice and accountability.

However, Odinga defended his participation, saying it was not about politics but remembrance. “This is about honouring those who laid down their lives for Kenya’s democratic space,” he stated.

Second Liberation

Odinga paid tribute to other key figures in Kenya’s second liberation struggle, including the late Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, Paul Muite, Kiraitu Murungi, Mukhisa Kituyi and Njeri Kathangu.

These leaders helped steer the push for constitutional and governance reforms during the early 1990s.

The 2024 Saba Saba anniversary comes amid a new wave of protests led by young Kenyans demanding accountability, economic reforms, and an end to police brutality.

These demonstrations have been met with a heavy police response, with reports of injuries, arrests, and attacks by unidentified groups disrupting peaceful marches.

Government Warning

In response to the planned activities, several schools in urban centres have advised learners to stay home, with normal learning expected to resume on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku issued a firm directive to all government employees to report to work as usual.

“Monday is not a public holiday and all public servants are expected to report to their duty stations on time,” Ruku said. “Anyone who fails to report will have to produce a show-cause letter. I will personally conduct spot checks across government offices.”