Social protest or social control? Saba Saba, remembered for the historic nationwide protests of July 7, 1990, marked a turning point in Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy. Today, Kenyans once again take to the streets—commemorating that legacy and demanding accountability, good governance, and the rule of law. Palpable tensions remain high following the protests on the 25th of Jule 2025, which gained international attention. Coincidentally, this year’s demonstrations commemorated the anniversary of last year’s infamous Finance Bill protests, which lit the flame of demonstrations by proposing largely unpopular and tax hikes. Anger, resentment and uncertainty with the government still lingers, as the country braces itself for the anticipated protests to peak on Monday, the 7th of July, marking the historic 1990 Saba Saba protests for democratic reforms.
