By Samuel Ouma
As anti-government protests sweep across the country on the 35th anniversary of Saba Saba Day, opposition leader Raila Odinga has called for a National Reconciliation Forum to bring together all sectors of society in a bid to address Kenya’s deepening political and social crisis.
In a press conference on Monday, July 7, 2025, Odinga — widely regarded as one of the architects of Kenya’s multi-party democracy struggle — warned that the nation is “at a crossroads” and urged for urgent dialogue to prevent it from sliding into chaos.
“As a living architect of the events leading to Saba Saba, I choose a coming together of minds and country — in the interest of the nation I long fought for: its progress, stability, and prosperity,” Odinga declared.
The former Prime Minister proposed the establishment of an inclusive, intergenerationalnational conclave, bringing together the political class, the clergy, youth, and civil society to listen to the voices of Kenyans from all walks of life and formulate lasting reforms.
“What is to be done?” Odinga asked.
“We must hear our people across all divides and come up with irreducible reforms and changes necessary to take the country forward.”
The remarks come at a time of mounting public unrest across Kenya, with thousands taking to the streets in a fresh wave of Saba Saba protests — marking the historic day in 1990 when Kenyans demanded multi-party democracy. This year’s protests have been fueled by growing frustration over the high cost of living, rampant corruption, unemployment, allegations of police brutality and extrajudicial killings.
Kenya experienced a near-total shutdown today as security officers mounted roadblocks on key roads leading into the Central Business District (CBD) to prevent protesters from accessing city centres.
Despite the heavy police presence, demonstrations broke out in multiple regions across the country, effectively paralysing transport and disrupting business activities throughout the day.
Most residents chose to stay indoors, and schools remained largely deserted as learners stayed away due to safety concerns.
Odinga said there is a need to revisit comprehensive police reforms, calling for enhanced accountability, transparency, and improved relations between security agencies and the public.
“We must urgently return to the agenda of comprehensive police reforms. We must transform the police from a tool of repression into a service that protects and serves the people,” he said.
