Heavy police deployments and protest bans marked this year's Saba Saba Day in Kenya, but many citizens say the anniversary remains a powerful symbol of the country's unfinished democratic journey. While fear kept crowds small, activists insisted the fight for justice is far from over.

As Kenya marks the 36th anniversary of Saba Saba, leaders and analysts reflect on its role in securing multiparty democracy.

Kenyan police blocked a planned Saba Saba Day march in Nairobi on Tuesday, detaining protesters and sealing off the capital as President William Ruto's government intensified its…