Hundreds of residents in Mombasa marked the Saba Saba commemoration with a peaceful procession and petitioned the government to address concerns over alleged police brutality, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, unlawful killings and excessive use of force during public demonstrations.
The activists presented their petition to the government, calling for stronger accountability mechanisms and urging state institutions to uphold constitutional rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and participation in public affairs.
The participants said the commemoration honored Kenya’s historical struggle for democracy while reaffirming their commitment to defending the Constitution and protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens through peaceful civic engagement.
In the petition, the activists cited Articles 33, 36 and 37 of the Constitution, which provide for freedom of expression, freedom of association and the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions peacefully.
They maintained that no Kenyan should lose their life, liberty or dignity for exercising constitutional freedoms, urging security agencies to respect and protect citizens during public gatherings.
The demonstrators called on the Inspector General of Police to exercise effective command responsibility over police operations and ensure officers conduct their duties in accordance with the Constitution while safeguarding lives during public assemblies.
They further urged the National Police Service to uphold its mandate of protecting and serving Kenyans instead of creating fear among citizens.
The activists also appealed to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to independently investigate allegations of police brutality, torture, enforced disappearances, excessive use of force and unlawful killings.
They demanded that individuals found responsible for human rights violations be prosecuted without fear, favour or political interference.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) was also challenged to independently prosecute cases involving alleged human rights abuses based on credible investigations, while the Judiciary was urged to ensure victims and survivors receive timely justice.
Speaking during the commemoration, Joan Dea, a member of the team that participated in Kenya’s Second Liberation, encouraged young people to remain united and continue championing justice and freedom without political interference.
She urged the youth to view the pursuit of justice as a personal commitment rather than a political undertaking.
“Do it as a passion,” she said.
Human rights activist Edwin Shamir described the peaceful commemoration as part of what he termed Kenya’s Third Liberation, saying young people were increasingly advocating for constitutional rights, economic justice, accountability and improved governance.
The protesters also urged Kenyans to remain united in defending democracy through peaceful engagement, reject violence and work towards a society founded on justice, accountability and respect for human dignity.
Receiving the petition on behalf of the government, Mombasa Deputy County Commissioner Kalume Kashuru commended the participants for conducting a peaceful demonstration and expressing their concerns through lawful channels.
Kashuru assured the activists that their concerns would be forwarded to the relevant authorities for consideration.
He further pledged that allegation of police brutality would be investigated and that appropriate legal action would be taken against individuals found culpable.
The Deputy County Commissioner said the government would continue engaging citizens to promote peace, uphold the rule of law and strengthen public confidence in state institutions.
Saba Saba Day commemorates the July 7, 1990, pro-democracy rally at Kamukunji in Nairobi, which became a defining moment in Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy.
By Lillian Kasyoka
