Wajir East Member of Parliament Adan Daud has urged young people to maintain peace as the country prepares for this year’s Saba Saba demonstrations, expected to take place on Monday, July 7, 2025.

Speaking during a development tour in his constituency on Saturday, July 5, 2025, Daud warned against violence and destruction of property, especially as civil society groups and Gen Z youth plan nationwide protests in cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret.

“There is no problem in agitating for your rights. People have a right to protest. The Constitution guarantees that people have a right to picket, but they must do that peacefully,” the MP said.

Adding;

“We encourage them to do what they do, but they must do so in peace. They should not destroy property.”

Daud also cautioned politicians not to use young people for their selfish political interests.

“Kenya has a very young population. As a country, we must address the issue of unemployment,” he said, adding that failing to meet the needs of the youth leaves them vulnerable to manipulation.

The legislator called on the government to roll out more programs targeting young people, saying it is the only way to reduce the risk of unrest.

“The state must invest in the youth. If we do not give them hope, they will be easily influenced,” he noted.

Saba Saba

Saba Saba, held every July 7, marks the historic 1990 protest against the one-party regime of former President Daniel Moi. It was led by brave leaders like Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, and Raila Odinga at Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi.

Many were arrested, and some lost their lives in the struggle for multi-party democracy, which was eventually achieved in 1991.

This year’s Saba Saba is shaping up to be more than just a memorial. Organisers and activists are calling for justice, accountability, and an end to police brutality and extrajudicial killings.

Some of the motivation behind the protests comes from recent events, including the killing of blogger Albert Ojwang and the nationwide protests in June.

On social media, young people are using hashtags like #SabaSabaRevolutionDay to speak out against poor governance and human rights violations.

Security agencies have warned of possible disruptions during the Monday protests and are asking organisers to seek permits beforehand. Motorists’ groups have also called on police to protect peaceful demonstrators.

The police have promised to support legal and peaceful protests but have also warned that any unauthorised demonstrations will be stopped.

With large crowds expected in Nairobi and other cities, residents are being advised to stay safe, avoid high-risk areas, carry valid documents, and follow any government or police guidance.