Kisumu remained peaceful and calm on Monday following nationwide calls for Saba Saba protests, defying expectations of unrest in a region often considered a hotspot for political demonstrations.
The day after the country marked Saba Saba a day historically associated with the fight for democracy and civil liberties saw business return to normal in most parts of the lakeside city. While a few shops remained closed and some residents chose to stay indoors on Sunday, there were no reported incidents of violence or protest-related disruptions.
Public transport, though limited, continued to operate, and the streets, while quieter than usual, reflected an overall atmosphere of calm. The subdued mood stood in stark contrast to concerns expressed in the lead-up to the day, with many anticipating potential flashpoints in cities like Kisumu.
Instead, locals chose to honour the spirit of Saba Saba in a peaceful manner, emphasizing reflection and unity over confrontation. Many Kisumu residents acknowledged the historical importance of July 7 the day in 1990 when Kenyans took to the streets to demand multi-party democracy but opted not to heed calls for mass demonstrations this year.
Mark James, a trader in the central business district, echoed the sentiments of many. “We know what Saba Saba is, what it means, and what happened in the past,” he said. “Demos are for what, unless someone has ulterior motives? As Kisumu people, we are for peace, and we don’t want to see people on the streets in the name of protests.”
This calm response may be attributed to growing fatigue with political unrest and a desire for economic stability among Kisumu’s residents. Businesspeople and youth alike have increasingly expressed the need for dialogue rather than street protests, especially amid rising living costs and unemployment.
As the nation continues to navigate the challenges of governance and civic expression, Kisumu’s approach may serve as a model for balancing historical remembrance with peaceful coexistence demonstrating that the spirit of Saba Saba can live on without violence.
