Nairobi (Dawan Africa) – Protests erupted across several cities in Kenya on Sunday as citizens marked Saba Saba Day, the historic anniversary of the 1990 pro-democracy uprising. Demonstrators took to the streets in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and other towns, demanding government accountability, action on youth unemployment, and an end to police brutality.
The protests, largely led by youth and civil society groups, coincide with the release of a powerful video tribute that revisits the events of July 7, 1990—a day remembered as the turning point in Kenya’s transition from single-party rule to multi-party democracy.
“This is Saba Saba – the day the people of Kenya rose up to demand freedom, justice, and fair elections,” the video narration begins, highlighting the significance of a day that “broke the fear under the single-party regime.”
In 1990, Kenya was ruled by President Daniel arap Moi, under a one-party state dominated by KANU. On that day, leaders such as Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, and Raila Odinga called for nationwide protests to demand political reform. The demonstrations were declared illegal, and security forces responded with lethal force, reportedly killing at least 20 people and injuring hundreds. The three leaders were arrested, but the uprising sparked a movement that eventually forced constitutional reforms in 1991, leading to Kenya’s first multi-party elections in 1992.
Sunday’s protests echoed the spirit of that historic struggle. Demonstrators held placards reading “30 Years Later, Same Struggles” and chanted slogans calling for dignity, jobs, and democratic accountability. Organizers say the Saba Saba protests are not just symbolic but are aimed at pressuring the government to implement reforms promised since the 1990s.
“The youth today are carrying the same torch lit by Matiba, Rubia, and Raila. Our demands are not new—we want justice, jobs, and our rights respected,” said one protester in Nairobi.
While the commemorative video celebrates Kenya’s democratic milestones, it also underscores that many of the grievances raised in 1990 remain unresolved. “Police are still frequently accused of using excessive force during demonstrations. Youth continue to face unemployment, and corruption remains widespread,” it concludes.
As Kenya marks this year’s Saba Saba, the streets once again echo with demands for change—proving that the spirit of July 7 lives on.
