Raila Odinga has raised concerns over a shift towards authoritarianism in Kenya amid violent protests linked to the 35th anniversary of Saba Saba, prompting a crackdown on public gatherings.

• Three deaths reported during protests against police violence and systemic corruption.
• Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister, calls for a National Intergenerational Conclave to address pressing reforms.
• Protests erupted nationwide, with youth-led movements highlighting demands for civil liberties, economic justice, and police accountability.

On July 7, protests marked the 35th anniversary of the Saba Saba pro-democracy movement across Kenya, leading to roadblocks and tense confrontations, especially in Central Kenya.

• Traffic was halted on the Mwea–Embu highway due to burning tyres and debris.
• Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen warned against property destruction while police maintained order.
• Youths expressed grievances over police brutality, economic struggles, and demanded accountability with placards stating, “Justice for the Fallen Gen Zs.”

On July 7, 2025, Kenya's youth orchestrated a peaceful shutdown of Nairobi and other towns, utilizing social media to mobilize under hashtags like #SabaSaba2025 without violence.

• Despite government assurances, the capital experienced closed shops and empty roads due to youth-organized actions.
• Key figures include President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga, amid rising tensions following the police killing of blogger Albert Ojwang.
• The event marked the 35th anniversary of the Saba Saba uprising, emphasizing the shift to digital activism by Gen Z.

On July 7, during protests for Saba Saba Day in Nairobi County, at least one person, identified as Dennis, was shot with a rubber bullet while fleeing police.

• One individual was injured and unable to walk after being shot.
• Police efforts to manage demonstrations resulted in barricades and clashes in areas like Kitengela and Mukuru kwa Njenga.
• The situation escalated, but major incidents of violence and looting remained limited across the country.

Kenyan police fired tear gas at protesters in Nairobi as the central business district was sealed off during anti-government demonstrations marking the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba protests.

• 19 people were killed in previous nationwide protests, highlighting ongoing unrest.
• The protests were organized by the Gen-Z demographic, demanding accountability and justice for police brutality victims.
• Infiltration by armed gangs during protests raised concerns over violence, with accusations of police collusion.

Four people have died during the ongoing Saba Saba protests in Kangemi and Ngong, highlighting escalated violence across the country.

• 2 fatalities reported in both Kangemi and Ngong
• Emergency response hindered by barricades, according to a paramedic from Kangemi
• Protesters in Ngong report a lack of ambulances while several remain injured

On July 7, Raila Odinga, the opposition leader in Kenya, criticized the commemoration of the 35th anniversary of Saba Saba through street demonstrations, urging Gen Z to engage civically.

• Saba Saba marks a pivotal moment in Kenya's fight for political freedom, specifically regarding political multiparty systems.
• Raila Odinga, along with key figures like Charles Rubia and Kenneth Matiba, played significant roles in its history.
• Odinga proposed an intergenerational conclave to address youth employment, governance accountability, and police-citizen relations.