Oburu: Saba Saba should be a national holiday
By Aloys Michael, July 7, 2026Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has proposed that Saba Saba Day, Kenya’s annual July 7 commemoration of the country’s pro-democracy movement, be officially declared a national holiday, arguing that the occasion should focus on honouring Kenya’s democratic achievements and the sacrifices made to secure political freedoms.
Saba Saba, observed every July 7, commemorates the 1990 pro-democracy movement that demanded the repeal of Section 2A of the former Constitution, paving the way for the return of multiparty democracy. The movement later culminated in far-reaching constitutional reforms, including the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.
Speaking on Saba Saba Day, Tuesday, July 7, 2026, Oburu said the significance of the annual commemoration has evolved since the country achieved many of the constitutional and political reforms that inspired the historic movement. He said the day should now be dedicated to remembrance and national reflection instead of demonstrations and unrest.
“Today, as we mark the 7th of July, we must pause and reflect. Saba Saba should be a day of deep commemoration, not friction and street protests. Today ought to serve as a powerful reminder of just how far we have come as a nation,” he said,
The senator recalled that the original Saba Saba movement in 1990 sought to end one-party rule by pushing for the repeal of Section 2A of the former Constitution and the restoration of multiparty democracy during the administration of the late former President Daniel arap Moi. He said those objectives were eventually realised through reforms in the early 1990s and later entrenched in the 2010 Constitution.
“The original Saba Saba in 1990 had clear, monumental goals: dismantling the one-party state, repealing Section 2A, and restoring multi-party democracy. Having lived through that struggle, I am proud that these milestones were successfully achieved first in the early ’90s, and later anchored in our 2010 Constitution,” he added.
According to Oburu, the country’s democratic progress provides an opportunity to redefine the meaning of Saba Saba by giving it formal national recognition.
“Because these foundational battles have been won, it is time for Saba Saba to evolve. I firmly believe it should now be officially recognised as a national holiday,” he explained.
He urged Kenyans to use the occasion to celebrate the country’s democratic milestones, reflect on the future, and pay tribute to those who fought for constitutional reforms instead of engaging in confrontational protests.
“Instead of turning to the streets in conflict, let us use this moment to appreciate our immense political gains, reflect on our future, and honour the brave heroes who fought for our freedom. Let us protect our hard-earned democracy,” he said.
While the day is often marked by demonstrations and civic action, Oburu believes it should now evolve into a national day of remembrance, reflection and celebration of the country’s democratic gains.