On the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba movement, Azimio leader Raila Odinga has called for a national dialogue aimed at steering Kenya towards inclusive governance, economic opportunity, and institutional accountability.
In a strongly-worded statement marking the day that catalyzed the return of multiparty democracy in Kenya, Odinga emphasized the significance of July 7, 1990, when thousands of Kenyans defied a repressive regime to demand political freedom at Nairobi’s Kamukunji Grounds.
“Saba Saba was not just a street protest,” he said. “It was a defining national moment—a collective cry for political pluralism, freedom of association, and a new democratic constitution.”
Odinga recalled the sacrifices made by the movement’s architects, including Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, and himself, as well as the inclusive leadership of the original Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD).
He noted that the events of Saba Saba laid the groundwork for the repeal of Section 2A of the constitution in 1991, and eventually led to the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.
But even as he celebrated past gains, the ODM leader expressed concern over the current state of the nation.
“Thirty-five years later, the country is grappling with a new wave of unrest and political activism,” he observed. “We must choose—chaos or a coming together of minds and country. I choose the latter.”
Odinga proposed the convening of an inclusive, intergenerational national conclave that would gather diverse voices to chart a renewed path forward for Kenya.
The forum, he said, should be tasked with identifying “irreducible reforms” to address youth unemployment, economic inequality, corruption, and impunity in governance.
Key proposals from the statement include:
* Comprehensive police reforms to enhance transparency, accountability, and police-public relations.
* Legislative changes to ensure responsive institutions and a more independent and progressive Judiciary.
* Strategies to combat corruption, hold leaders accountable, and instill ethics within public service.
* Job creation and opportunity expansion**, especially for young people in both formal and informal sectors.
Odinga emphasized that the outcomes of the proposed conclave should be subjected to a national referendum.
“We are a better nation because Saba Saba happened,” he said.
“We now have a duty to honor its legacy by confronting the challenges of our time with unity, integrity, and purpose.”