Raila laments fading purpose of Saba Saba movement
By William Muthama, July 7, 2025ODM party leader Raila Odinga has voiced deep concern over what he termed the fading significance of the Saba Saba movement, warning that its original purpose has been diluted over time.
Speaking on Monday, July 7, 2025during a press briefing, Odinga said Saba Saba was never meant to be a routine protest but a historic moment rooted in the fight for multiparty democracy.
“Saba Saba therefore was and still is about the sacred and historic grounds of Kamukunji,” he said. “It was not and is not just another street protest in Nairobi or any other town. Saba Saba had a singular purpose — to repeal section 2A of the Constitution and allow multi-party democracy in Kenya.”
Odinga, one of the founding figures of the 1990 movement, said this year’s 35th anniversary risked being reduced to scattered street actions with no central focus or clear leadership.
He emphasised that Saba Saba had distinct national conveners, stating, “Saba Saba had clear and known national conveners: Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia and yours truly, Raila Odinga. It was what gave birth to a bigger and powerful FORD.”
The ODM leader also revealed that he had planned to attend a symbolic rally at Kamukunji Grounds the historic site of the original Saba Saba protests b but was blocked from doing so due to heavy police barricades across the city.
“I was going to go to Kamukunji to join other Kenyans in commemorating this very important day. Unfortunately, roadblocks all over town made it difficult for people to access the venue,” he said.
Odinga’s remarks come amid nationwide protests marked by violent confrontations, looting, and vandalism in parts of Nairobi, including Roysambu, where a Quickmart supermarket was broken into and ransacked.
The demonstrations, while framed around Saba Saba, have seen youth clash with police, triggering renewed debate about the movement’s direction and the state’s handling of public dissent.
As tension continues to rise, Odinga has urged Kenyans to reflect on the roots of Saba Saba and protect its legacy as a peaceful and unified call for democratic reform