Faces Behind the Saba Saba Protests Who Are Still Alive
The Saba Saba protests, commemorated every July 7, remain a defining moment in Kenya’s journey to democracy. First held on July 7, 1990, these protests challenged President Daniel arap Moi’s authoritarian regime and paved the way for multi-party politics.
Today, we look back at some of the brave Kenyans who led this historic movement and are still alive to tell the story.
1. Gitobu Imanyara – The Fearless Publisher
Gitobu Imanyara, founder of the Nairobi Law Monthly, was instrumental in advocating for political pluralism. His special issue titled “The Historic Debate: Law, Democracy, and Multi-Party Politics in Kenya” earned him arrest and detention just days before the protests.
2. James Orengo – The Young Turk
Now Governor of Siaya County, James Orengo was among the fiery “Young Turks” who defied Moi’s one-party dictatorship. Despite arrests and threats, he tirelessly mobilized Kenyans to demand constitutional reforms.
3. John Khaminwa – The Human Rights Lawyer
Renowned lawyer John Khaminwa bravely defended Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia. But his advocacy came at a cost—he too was arrested and detained at Nairobi Area Police Station.
4. Njeru Kathangu – The Former MP
Njeru Kathangu, then a vocal activist, was arrested days after the protests and reportedly tortured at Nyayo House. Later elected as Runyenjes MP in 1997, he became a staunch advocate for human rights and social justice.
5. Reverend Timothy Njoya – The Preacher Who Defied Power
Rev. Timothy Njoya, of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa, risked everything when he tried to address demonstrators at Kamukunji Grounds. Police brutally beat him, but his faith-fueled courage inspired many to join the fight for democracy.
The Legacy of Saba Saba
Thanks to these heroes, Section 2A of Kenya’s Constitution was repealed in 1991, restoring multi-party democracy. Their courage remains a reminder that freedom is never free it’s fought for and defended.
As Kenyans prepare to mark Saba Saba this year, the call for good governance, human rights, and accountability continues to echo across generations.
