A section of Kisumu County residents has strongly opposed the planned Saba Saba demonstrations set for Monday, July 7, by members of Generation Z, citing concerns over peace, development, and potential disruption.
Speaking to the media in Nyalenda on Sunday, community leader Nyaori Nyang called on residents to reject any form of unrest, saying Kisumu has enjoyed relative peace and growth since the formation of the broad-based government between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
“We have heard and we are aware that there are people who want to demonstrate tomorrow in this town. We want to categorically state that Kisumu, which has long been associated with protests, has in recent years experienced peace and development. We are not ready to go back,” said Nyaori.
He praised the continued partnership between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, terming it a “stabilizing force” in the region. He urged business owners to open their shops as usual, insisting that there would be no protests in Kisumu.
According to Audi Ogada, chairperson of Kisumu Residents Voice and a human rights activist in the western region, the significance of July 7, commonly referred to as Saba Saba, should not be lost in violent protests.
“Saba Saba is a historical day to remember the patriots who fought for political freedom. It was born out of the 1990 struggle against dictatorship, and it led to the repeal of Section 2A, ushering in multiparty democracy,” Ogada said.
He urged demonstrators to honor the day through peaceful means, warning against any form of hooliganism and property destruction.
“Protest is enshrined in the Constitution, but recent demos were marred by violence and looting. This time, let’s commemorate with bouquets of flowers and take them to churches. Let us honor our heroes with dignity, not chaos,” Ogada added.
Echoing similar sentiments, Kisumu youth leader Alex Gilo challenged the younger generation to embrace democratic avenues such as voting and civic participation to drive change. He cautioned against destruction and reminded the youth of the sacrifices made in building the nation.
“This country has come a long way. Change doesn’t come through destruction. Let’s protect what we’ve built and move forward peacefully,” Gilo said.
These calls for calm come just a day before Gen Z demonstrators are expected to hit the streets across the country on July 7, citing unaddressed concerns under the Kenya Kwanza administration. Organizers have vowed to march in large numbers to mark the symbolic day of resistance.
Kisumu, a city with a history of political activism, appears poised to break from tradition, with leaders and residents alike choosing peace over protests.
