On July 7, 1990, Kenya witnessed a seismic shift—a moment etched in the nation’s collective memory as Saba Saba Day. But who were the architects of this historic uprising, and what drove them to defy the oppressive status quo?
The Pioneers: Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia
Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia, both seasoned politicians, stood at the forefront of the Saba Saba protests. Their backgrounds and experiences shaped their resolve:
Kenneth Matiba:
- A former cabinet minister and businessman, Matiba was no stranger to the corridors of power. His political journey began during the Kenyatta era, where he held key positions.
- Matiba’s transformation came when he witnessed the erosion of democratic principles. He saw the one-party system suffocate dissent, muzzle free speech, and deny Kenyans their right to choose their leaders.
- His personal sacrifice—arrest, detention, and physical suffering—underscored his commitment to a democratic Kenya.
Charles Rubia:
- Rubia, a lawyer and politician, shared Matiba’s vision. His activism during the struggle for independence earned him respect among Kenyans.
- As a former Nairobi mayor, Rubia understood the pulse of the city. He saw firsthand the frustration of ordinary citizens, their dreams stifled by autocracy.
- Rubia’s courage to call for protests despite the risks demonstrated unwavering commitment to justice.
The Causes: Demanding Democracy and Accountability
The Saba Saba protests were not spontaneous outbursts; they were the culmination of years of frustration and pent-up anger:
Demand for Free Elections:
- Kenyans yearned for genuine representation. The one-party state denied them the right to choose their leaders freely.
- Matiba and Rubia rallied the masses, demanding an end to this electoral stranglehold. They envisioned a Kenya where citizens’ votes mattered.
Authoritarian Practices:
- President Daniel arap Moi’s regime wielded immense power. Dissent was crushed, and human rights violations were rampant.
- The Saba Saba protests symbolized defiance against this autocracy. Kenyans wanted accountability, transparency, and an end to police brutality.
The Sacrifices:
- The price of dissent was steep. Matiba and Rubia faced arrests, imprisonment, and physical harm. Yet, they persisted.
- Their sacrifices inspired others—ordinary citizens, students, and professionals—to join the movement. The streets echoed with chants for change.
Legacy and Lessons
The Saba Saba protests marked a turning point. They ignited a fire that couldn’t be extinguished. Kenyans realized their collective power—the power to demand justice, transparency, and a government that truly served them.
As we commemorate Saba Saba, let us honor the memory of these pioneers. Their legacy lives on in today’s Gen Z movement—a digital force demanding accountability, transparent budgeting, and an end to corruption. Kenya stands at another crossroads. Will we heed the lessons of Saba Saba and continue the fight for a better nation?