Raila Odinga has declared that he is the original architect of Kenya’s Saba Saba movement, as he makes a dramatic return to the frontlines of protest ahead of Monday’s rally at Kamukunji Grounds.
“I am the one who created Saba Saba,” Raila said on Sunday. “That is why I will be at Kamukunji. To honour those who died in the fight for democracy and to remind this nation what we stood for.”
The statement marks a bold re-entry into national activism for the veteran politician, who until now had been on the sidelines of the youth-led protests sweeping across the country.
The Saba Saba movement began on July 7, 1990, as a push for multiparty democracy in Kenya. Raila Odinga, along with others like Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia, was a central figure in that fight. Now, 35 years later, he says it’s time to reclaim the spirit of resistance.
“Kamukunji is where it started. That’s where I’ll be. We must remember our history and defend our democracy,” he said.
Raila’s decision to attend the rally comes after weeks of Generation Z-led protests calling for government accountability, an end to corruption, and economic reforms. Many had noted his absence-until now.
Backing Gen Z: “I’m with you.”
Speaking at a church service over the weekend, Raila praised the courage of young Kenyans on the streets and lashed out at police brutality.
“I have seen Gen Zs being teargassed. They told me to sit at home, but I am fully behind you,” he told the congregation. “Don’t give up. You are fighting for your future.”
He condemned the government’s handling of the protests, saying the police have no right to use force against peaceful demonstrators.
“Police should not brutalise unarmed people. This is not what we fought for.”
Call for Dialogue, Not Violence
Raila is calling for urgent and honest national talks to address the core grievances behind the unrest. He says youth unemployment, tribalism, corruption and exclusion are choking the country’s progress.
“We need a serious, comprehensive dialogue. Not public relations. We must fix what has gone wrong in this country,” he urged.
Church Criticized for Silence
In a striking moment during his speech, Raila also took aim at the clergy, accusing religious leaders of siding with power instead of standing up for justice.
“Some church leaders are visiting State House with pre-written speeches. That’s not leadership. The church must stand with the people, especially the youth.”
Civil Service and Corruption
He ended with a demand for stricter rules in public service, saying it’s unacceptable for government officials to use public office for private gain.
“A civil servant must choose-either you’re in business or you serve the people. Not both.”
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