On the 35th anniversary of Saba Saba, Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga emphasized the historic and sacred significance of the Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi, where the original 1990 protests took place. Odinga described Saba Saba as an inclusive, democratic, and intergenerational movement that united various segments of society in the struggle for good governance and the repeal of section 2A of the Constitution to allow multi-party democracy. He proposed the establishment of an "Intergenerational National Conclave" to address pressing national issues, including comprehensive police reforms, youth unemployment, and political accountability. Odinga suggested that the outcomes of this conclave should be subjected to a referendum. His call for a national dialogue has received mixed reactions: some civil rights activists and leaders like Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga have supported the initiative, highlighting dialogue as a preferable alternative to unrest. However, key political figures such as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua have rejected the proposal, arguing that the country's challenges should be resolved through electoral processes rather than dialogue. The debate reflects ongoing tensions in Kenya's political landscape as the nation grapples with youth-led protests and demands for reform ahead of the 2027 elections.
Barasa urges gov’t to pardon youth arrested during protests, allow dialogue https://t.co/ncxFdAQZQ8
Raila Odinga supporter says Intergenerational Conclave is a con game. https://t.co/lrybw47jQV
Dialogue is better than anger and anarchy, Raila has no secret agenda | Governor Gladys Wanga https://t.co/FFqX4BV4ey https://t.co/piH39cnJ93