NAIROBI, Kenya — Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa has marked this year’s Saba Saba anniversary by honouring the heroes of Kenya’s Second Liberation while calling for justice over deaths linked to recent anti-government protests.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Wamalwa said Saba Saba remains a significant day for remembering Kenyans who lost their lives or suffered injuries while fighting for democracy, constitutionalism and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.
“Today is Saba Saba day when we remember our heroes and heroines of the Second Liberation who lost life and limb fighting for good governance, accountability and a new Constitutional order where citizens would enjoy the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed by their Constitution without facing abductions, torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings,” he said.
Wamalwa referred to the anti-government protests held over the past year, claiming that 27 people were killed during demonstrations on June 25, 2024, marking the first anniversary of the Gen Z protests. He also cited an Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) report indicating that 38 people died during last year’s Saba Saba protests.
He said those responsible for the deaths had not yet been held accountable.
“Today let Kenyans remember their fallen heroes in their own way whether they choose to stay home or march on the streets without being subjected to State-sponsored terror, goonism, abductions, torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Enough is enough!” Wamalwa said.
The former Defence Cabinet Secretary also paid tribute to veteran pro-democracy leaders whom he said had remained steadfast in the struggle for democratic reforms.
He singled out Siaya Governor James Orengo, senior counsel Gitobu Imanyara, lawyer Paul Muite and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua for their continued advocacy.
Wamalwa also honoured several deceased figures whom he described as key contributors to Kenya’s democratic journey, including former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Martin Shikuku, Kijana Wamalwa, Kenneth Matiba, Abuya Abuya, Masinde Muliro, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Charles Rubia and George Anyona.
“We continue with the struggle,” he said.
Saba Saba, observed annually on July 7, commemorates the 1990 pro-democracy movement that pushed for the restoration of multi-party democracy in Kenya and has since become a symbolic day for civic action and calls for governance reforms.