By Erestinah Jane | July 7, 2026
NARC-Kenya Party Leader Martha Karua has defended the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, urging Kenyans to resist attempts to restrict public demonstrations and calling on state agencies to respect freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution.
Speaking during a national address today, to mark the annual Saba Saba Day commemorations, Karua said the right to demonstrate and present petitions peacefully is a fundamental constitutional protection that cannot be curtailed through administrative actions or intimidation.
“The right to picket and demonstrate peacefully is not a favor from the government; it is anchored in Article 37 of our Constitution. We urge all Kenyans to remain resilient and reject any form of state intimidation,” Karua said.
The veteran constitutional lawyer criticized measures taken ahead of the planned Saba Saba demonstrations, including road closures and heightened security deployment in Nairobi’s Central Business District, arguing that such actions should not be used to deny citizens their constitutional freedoms.
Karua took issue with the closure of key access roads into the city centre, saying any restrictions on movement or public assembly must be consistent with the Constitution and the law. She maintained that administrative decisions cannot override constitutional rights and freedoms.
She also expressed concern over reports of alleged intimidation of activists and warned against the use of unlawful methods in enforcing public order. Karua said all security operations should be conducted within the framework of the law and with full respect for due process and human rights.
The opposition leader further argued that peaceful demonstrations remain an important democratic avenue through which citizens can express concerns over governance, the high cost of living, taxation and other national issues. She maintained that the Constitution protects the right of Kenyans to voice their grievances without fear of intimidation or unlawful interference.
Karua called on the Judiciary to continue safeguarding constitutional rights by holding public officials accountable where state actions are found to violate the law. She said adherence to the Constitution is essential in preserving Kenya’s democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Her remarks come amid heightened political tensions surrounding the Saba Saba commemorations, which have seen increased police deployment in Nairobi and other parts of the country. Authorities have maintained that security measures are intended to protect lives and property and ensure that any public gatherings are conducted in accordance with the law.
The annual Saba Saba observance, first associated with the push for multi-party democracy in Kenya, has evolved into a platform for civic engagement, with political leaders, civil society organisations and citizens using the occasion to raise concerns on governance, economic challenges and constitutional rights.
Karua’s address adds to the growing national debate over the balance between maintaining public order and protecting the constitutional freedoms of assembly, expression and association, issues that continue to shape Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
