Few names have become as synonymous with activism and reform as Morara Kebaso. A figure whose career has been marked by bold moves and relentless pursuit of political reforms, Kebaso now finds himself at the center of yet another national debate. His latest undertaking—a parallel event to Mashujaa Day celebrations planned in Narok—has ignited controversy and raised questions about the nature of political protest in Kenya.
A Parallel Mashujaa Day Event
Mashujaa Day, celebrated on October 20th, is one of Kenya’s most significant national holidays, commemorating the country’s heroes who fought for independence. Traditionally, the event is spearheaded by the sitting president, with elaborate celebrations that draw attention from across the country. This year, however, a shadow looms over the official celebrations led by President William Ruto.
Morara Kebaso, a firebrand activist, has reportedly planned an event to run in parallel with the official Mashujaa Day celebrations, choosing Narok County as the venue. While details of the event remain somewhat vague, its very existence is seen by many as a direct challenge to the sitting government’s authority. Activists and government officials alike have expressed concerns that this could trigger unnecessary conflict or confusion, especially given the already heightened political tensions in the country.
What adds to the complexity of the situation is the fact that other activist groups had already scheduled protests on Mashujaa Day, aimed at denouncing the Ruto administration. These protests focus on various grievances, ranging from economic hardships to dissatisfaction with the government’s performance. Kebaso’s decision to organize a parallel celebration rather than join the protest has put him at odds with some of his former allies in the activist community. Critics claim that this move dilutes the impact of their efforts, while Kebaso’s supporters argue that he is simply exercising his democratic right to express dissent in his own way.
Arrest and Release: The Bomas of Kenya Incident
Kebaso’s activism, however, has not come without personal costs. On October 8, 2024, he was arrested following a public altercation at Bomas of Kenya, where a public participation event concerning the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was taking place. According to reports, Kebaso was attacked during the event, though the reasons behind the attack remain unclear. Some accounts suggest that it was a result of his outspoken criticisms of the government, while others point to internal disagreements within activist circles.
Despite being the victim of the attack, Kebaso found himself in custody, accused of causing a disturbance likely to breach the peace. His arrest drew widespread attention, particularly on social media, where supporters and critics alike debated the fairness of the charges. Was this an example of the state using legal mechanisms to silence dissent, or was Kebaso’s involvement in the altercation justifiable grounds for legal action?
Kebaso was released on police bond shortly after his arrest, with his next court appearance scheduled for October 15, 2024. The charges against him, while serious, have done little to dampen his determination to continue his political activities.
Public Statements and Actions
In the days following his release, Morara Kebaso took to social media to clarify his stance on the incident and the direction of his activism. Notably, he stated that he was not the type to “keep attacking someone who’s already defeated,” a cryptic statement that left many speculating about its meaning. Some interpreted it as a subtle acknowledgment that his long-standing feud with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua might be nearing its end, while others saw it as a strategic pivot, suggesting Kebaso was recalibrating his political tactics.
What followed was even more surprising. Kebaso announced that he was open to working with Deputy President Gachagua, despite their past differences. He hinted that Gachagua might possess information that could be valuable to their shared goals, signaling a potential shift from confrontation to collaboration. This unexpected development has left many observers wondering what Kebaso’s next moves might be, and whether this newfound alliance will hold.
A History of Political Activism and Reform
Kebaso’s willingness to work with his former adversary is characteristic of his unpredictable approach to politics. Over the years, he has built a reputation for championing causes that others might shy away from, regardless of the personal risks involved. From calling for the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to advocating for the recall of Members of Parliament, his activism has consistently sought to address systemic issues in Kenya’s political structure.
His recent campaign for the recall of MPs has gained particular traction, resonating with a population increasingly frustrated with their elected representatives. Kebaso has argued that many MPs have failed to live up to their campaign promises and have become disconnected from the people they represent. The recall campaign is part of his broader push for political reforms, which he believes are necessary to restore trust in Kenya’s democratic institutions.
Personal Security Concerns
As Kebaso’s influence and visibility have grown, so too have concerns about his personal safety. The attack at Bomas of Kenya served as a stark reminder of the risks associated with political activism in a country where political violence is not uncommon. Following the incident, there were calls from various quarters for the police to provide him with protection, though it remains unclear whether such measures have been implemented.
This concern for his safety is compounded by the fact that many activists in Kenya have faced threats, intimidation, and even physical violence in the course of their work. Kebaso’s supporters fear that the more he challenges the status quo, the greater the risk to his well-being.
A Volatile Political Landscape
Kebaso’s story is a microcosm of the broader political challenges facing Kenya today. With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, tensions between the government and its critics are likely to escalate further. The planned parallel Mashujaa Day event is just one example of how dissent is manifesting in new and creative ways, as activists seek to challenge the government without resorting to traditional forms of protest.
At the same time, the legal battles faced by individuals like Kebaso highlight the precarious nature of political activism in Kenya. While the country prides itself on its democratic institutions, the reality is that those who push for change often find themselves in conflict with the very systems they seek to reform.
Conclusion
As October 20 approaches, all eyes will be on Narok to see how Morara Kebaso’s parallel Mashujaa Day event unfolds. Will it serve as a platform for constructive dialogue, or will it deepen the divisions within the activist community? And what does his willingness to collaborate with Deputy President Gachagua mean for the future of his political activism?
One thing is clear: Morara Kebaso is not backing down from his commitment to push for political reforms, even as the stakes continue to rise. Whether his approach will yield the desired changes or provoke further conflict remains to be seen, but his role in shaping Kenya’s political discourse is undeniable.
