DAP-Kenya Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa has paid tribute to Kenya’s pro-democracy heroes and victims of recent anti-government protests, calling for accountability over alleged police brutality, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
In a statement issued to mark this year’s Saba Saba commemorations, Wamalwa said the day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Kenyans who fought for the country’s second liberation and the constitutional freedoms enjoyed today.
“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,” he said.
Wamalwa alleged that Kenyans continue to face challenges, including abductions, torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, despite the gains made through the struggle for multiparty democracy.
The former Defence Cabinet Secretary also referenced last year’s anti-government demonstrations, claiming that dozens of protesters lost their lives during the June 25, 2024, protests and the subsequent Saba Saba demonstrations.
Citing figures he attributed to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), Wamalwa claimed that 38 people were killed during the 2025 Saba Saba protests, adding that those responsible had yet to be brought to justice.
He called on the government to ensure that Kenyans are free to commemorate Saba Saba peacefully, whether by remaining at home or participating in demonstrations, without fear of violence or intimidation.
“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 opposition leader also paid tribute to veteran democracy activists whom he said remained steadfast in the struggle for constitutional reforms, including Siaya Governor James Orengo, Senior Counsel Gitobu Imanyara, veteran lawyer Paul Muite and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua.
He further honoured departed leaders whom he credited with advancing Kenya’s democratic journey, including Wamalwa Kijana, Kenneth Matiba, Martin Shikuku, Masinde Muliro, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Jean-Marie Seroney Rubia, Anyona and Abuya Abuya.
Saba Saba, commemorated annually on July 7, marks the historic 1990 pro-democracy movement that demanded the restoration of multiparty democracy in Kenya. The day has since evolved into a platform for citizens to advocate for governance reforms, constitutional rights and social justice.
