Raila Calls for Kamukunji Gathering Over Street Protests for Saba Saba

Former Prime Minister emphasizes remembrance over demonstrations as Kenya marks 35th anniversary of historic pro-democracy movement

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has called on Kenyans to gather at the historic Kamukunji Grounds on Monday, July 7, to commemorate Saba Saba Day, steering away from street protests in favor of a more reflective approach to marking the anniversary.

Speaking to journalists on Sunday, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader emphasized that Saba Saba Day should be a time for remembrance rather than demonstrations, honoring those who sacrificed their lives in the fight for Kenya’s democratic freedoms.

“Saba Saba was a very noble idea meant to bring people together for a common cause, which was change,” Odinga said.

“We decided to go to Kamukunji grounds, which is a historical ground. This is where the last Kenyan African Union meeting was held in 1952 before the declaration of the state of emergency.”

The veteran politician, who co-founded the Saba Saba movement alongside Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia in 1990, stressed the symbolic importance of Kamukunji Grounds in Kenya’s struggle for democracy.

The site served as the rallying point for pro-democracy activists 35 years ago when they demanded multiparty democracy during the late President Daniel Moi’s regime.

“Kamukunji has historical meaning, which is why we want to go there,” Odinga explained. “If you want to remember Saba Saba, then we will go to Kamukunji. I always go to Kamukunji on Saba Saba Day to remember the people who lost their lives.”

Rather than street protests, Odinga proposed that participants gather at the grounds to pass resolutions about “the Kenya we want to be,” describing this as the most fitting way to honor those who died fighting for Kenyan rights.

However, the former Prime Minister acknowledged that the original objectives of Saba Saba remain unfulfilled. “We have not achieved what Saba Saba intended,” he admitted, citing ongoing challenges including human rights violations, police brutality, and economic underperformance.

The call for a peaceful gathering comes at a time when Kenya continues to grapple with various socio-economic challenges, making the anniversary particularly significant for citizens seeking democratic reforms and accountability.

Odinga’s approach reflects a shift from traditional protest methods to a more contemplative commemoration, focusing on unity and collective resolution-making rather than confrontational demonstrations on the streets.

The July 7, 1990 Saba Saba protests marked a turning point in Kenya’s political history, with activists gathering at Kamukunji to demand constitutional reforms and multiparty democracy, ultimately contributing to the end of single-party rule in the country.

As Kenya marks this significant anniversary, Odinga’s call for a peaceful gathering at Kamukunji Grounds represents both a tribute to the past and a template for future democratic engagement in the country.