As the country gears up for the annual Saba Saba Day commemorations, religious leaders and community representatives in Migori have called for peace, urging the youth to avoid engaging in street protests without a valid cause.
During a consultative forum bringing together various vocal groups, clergy members and civic leaders stressed the importance of maintaining national stability. Bishop Essau Jobando led the charge, emphasizing that while freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it must be exercised responsibly. He cautioned that persistent demonstrations, especially those lacking clear objectives, risk derailing the progress Kenya has made over the years.
Bishop Jobando noted that the original goals of the Saba Saba movement championing multiparty democracy and civil liberties — have largely been achieved. “There is no justification for violent protests. Let us honor Saba Saba with reflection and constructive dialogue, not unrest,” he said.
Echoing these sentiments were Bishop Chris Abula and Pastor Linnet Peace, who urged the public to prioritize peace and unity. They called on leaders not to exploit historical commemorations to stir political tensions or mobilize youth for personal agendas.
Migori Bunge la Wananchi Speaker Kennedy Oganga also weighed in, stating that Saba Saba no longer resonates with the younger generation in the same way it once did. “Using it to fuel political rhetoric or incite violence is both outdated and dangerous,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, members of Bunge la Wananchi, led by Charles Osewe, pledged a peaceful observance of the day in Migori. Osewe reassured the public that no property would be destroyed during the commemorations and that local businesses would operate normally. He stressed the need for demonstrators to have genuine reasons, adding that peaceful assembly should never be confused with lawlessness.
As the country remembers the significance of July 7 in Kenya’s democratic journey, the call from Migori is clear: uphold peace, respect the rule of law, and reflect on the gains made rather than resorting to divisive actions that could erode them.
