Opposition leader and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Chairman Raila Odinga expressed frustration today as police roadblocks across Nairobi prevented him from joining Kenyans at Kamukunji Grounds to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Saba Saba protests.
Speaking to the press, Odinga stated, “For the 35th anniversary of Saba Saba, I was planning to go to Kamukunji to join other Kenyans in commemorating this important day. Unfortunately, roadblocks all over town have made it difficult for people to move to Kamukunji.”
His remarks highlight escalating tensions as Gen Z-led protests demand accountability from President William Ruto’s administration.
The Saba Saba protests, initiated in 1990 by Odinga, Kenneth Matiba, and others, were pivotal in securing multiparty democracy in Kenya.
This year’s Saba Saba 2025 demonstrations, driven by youth anger over the Finance Bill 2025, police brutality, and corruption, have faced heavy police crackdowns.
Reports from Capital News indicate that Nairobi’s CBD, including Kenyatta Avenue, Uhuru Highway, and Moi Avenue, was sealed off, with tear gas deployed despite no active protesters, as noted by NTV’s Ibrahim Karanja.
These roadblocks, alongside the reported KDF Green Berets deployment, have restricted movement, preventing citizens from gathering at Kamukunji, a historic site for pro-democracy rallies.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported 16 deaths during the June 25 protests, fuelling demands for justice and reform.
Odinga, who recently allied with Ruto, urged Gen Z to commemorate peacefully, but his call has been met with doubts, noting, “Raila’s Kamukunji plan sounds like damage control for his UDA deal.”
As Kenya grapples with economic challenges, including a 68% GDP public debt, the roadblocks show efforts to suppress dissent.
