ODM leader Raila Odinga has called for a return to the true spirit of Saba Saba. According to Raila the day has in recent years been misinterpreted and misused by people pursuing personal agendas.
Speaking in an interview at his residence in Karen, Raila reminded Kenyans of the original intent of the historic day of July 7, 1990, when pro-democracy leaders and citizens gathered peacefully at Kamukunji grounds to push for multiparty democracy.
“The aim was to engage with the people, collect their views on whether Kenya should remain a one-party state or become a multiparty democracy, and present those views to the government,” he said.
Raila urged those planning to mark this year’s Saba Saba to honor the spirit of 1990 by assembling peacefully in one place, remembering those who lost their lives in the struggle, addressing the public, and returning home.
The former Prime Minister emphasized that the day should not be turned into a tool for personal or political gain, but remain a solemn occasion to reflect on Kenya’s journey to democracy.
The first Saba Saba was held 35 years ago in 1990, when opposition leaders formed a protest movement demanding multiparty democracy against then-President Daniel arap Moi’s autocratic regime under the Kenya African National Union (KANU).
Opposition leaders Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga called for a rally at Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi, demanding multiparty democracy. Despite the rally being banned by the government.
The protesters defied the prohibition, leading to widespread unrest in the country.
