By Monica Nashon
People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has called on Kenyans to remain vigilant in safeguarding the Constitution and exercising their democratic rights peacefully.
Speaking during the opening of the party’s Kisii County branch office on Saba Saba Day, Karua said the annual commemoration serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Kenyans during the struggle for multi-party democracy and constitutional reforms.
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She paid tribute to those who lost their lives, were detained, injured, or otherwise suffered in the fight for democratic freedoms, noting that their sacrifices ultimately paved the way for the promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.
“We remember those who shed their blood during the struggle for democracy. Their footsteps gave us the 2010 Constitution, and we must safeguard it,” Karua said.
The former Justice Minister said the Constitution remains the country’s most important safeguard against abuse of power and should be protected by all Kenyans regardless of political affiliation.
Karua further maintained that citizens have a constitutional right to assemble, demonstrate and express their views, provided they do so peacefully.
“No Kenyan should be prevented from exercising constitutional rights as long as they do so peacefully. The government must respect the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution,” she said.
Her remarks came as Kenyans marked Saba Saba, a historic day associated with the pro-democracy movement that pushed for the reintroduction of multi-party politics in the early 1990s.
The annual commemoration has in recent years evolved into a platform for reflecting on governance, accountability, human rights and the state of democracy in the country.
This year’s observance was held against the backdrop of heightened political debate over governance, economic challenges and growing calls from opposition leaders and civil society groups for greater respect for constitutional freedoms.
Karua urged citizens to honour the legacy of the Second Liberation by remaining committed to peaceful civic engagement and defending democratic institutions.
“The struggle for democracy did not end with the promulgation of the Constitution. It is our collective responsibility to protect the gains that were achieved through sacrifice and courage,” she said.
The opening of the PLP office in Kisii forms part of the party’s efforts to strengthen its grassroots presence ahead of the 2027 General Election.
