Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has hailed Kenya’s youth as the vanguard of the “Third Liberation,” marking the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba movement with a call for peaceful resistance and accountability.

In a reflective message shared on X on July 7, 2025, Musyoka drew parallels between the country’s current wave of youth-led protests and the 1990 struggle for multiparty democracy, which saw reformists like Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, and Martin Shikuku brave police brutality and detention to push for political freedoms.

“Today, our youth are the faces and voices of the Third Liberation. We remember the iconic image of the young Turks, standing on a pickup’s bed, speaking to Kenyans and the world via loudspeakers,” Kalonzo wrote, referencing the symbolic moment that catalysed the repeal of Section 2A and ushered in Kenya’s Second Liberation.

Today, Musyoka says, the fight continues—but with smartphones instead of megaphones.

“Today, the voice of resistance is found in our youth, who, in peaceful protest against impunity, injustice, corruption, and misrule, use their phones to air, tweet, and record their grievances and concerns; carry a bottle of water to quench their march’s thirst; and carry the flag of Kenya to show the world how very proud they are to be Kenyan,” he stated.

Praises their resolve

His remarks come amid ongoing nationwide demonstrations against President William Ruto’s administration, sparked by discontent over taxes, governance, and economic hardship. Dubbed #SabaSaba2025, the protests have been largely peaceful and tech-driven, with youth mobilising online and on the streets.

Musyoka praised the demonstrators for their resolve and non-violent approach, branding them the “faces and voices of the Third Liberation.” He emphasised that their actions reflect a generational awakening rooted in the spirit of the 2010 Constitution—a product of the Second Liberation—and aimed at ensuring justice and transparency in governance.

“They are not just resisting,” he said. “They are renewing the dream of a better Kenya.”

By invoking the phrase “#WanTam,” loosely interpreted as a demand for regime change or reform, he says, Musyoka signalled solidarity with the protestors and reaffirmed his commitment to democratic ideals.

As Kenya commemorates Saba Saba, Musyoka’s words resonate as a reminder that the struggle for freedom is ongoing—and that each generation must rise to the moment.