Kenyans marked this year’s Saba Saba anniversary with a mix of fear, defiance and renewed demands for justice, as heightened security and scattered protests underscored growing tensions over governance, police conduct and the cost of living.
The annual commemoration, held on July 7, honours the pro-democracy movement that pushed for multiparty politics in the early 1990s. This year’s observance came amid heavy police deployment in parts of Nairobi and other towns, with authorities seeking to prevent demonstrations from escalating into violence.
Many businesses remained closed and public transport was disrupted in several areas as residents weighed concerns over their safety against calls to participate in protests demanding accountability and economic reforms.
Demonstrators accused the government of failing to address rising living costs, unemployment and allegations of police brutality, while rights groups urged security agencies to respect the constitutional rights of peaceful protesters.
The government defended the security measures, saying they were necessary to maintain public order and protect lives and property. Officials also warned against acts of violence, looting and destruction during the demonstrations.
Saba Saba, meaning “Seven Seven” in Swahili, commemorates the July 7, 1990, protests that became a turning point in Kenya’s struggle for democratic reforms. The anniversary has increasingly become a platform for citizens to voice concerns over governance, economic hardship and human rights.
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