Ukweli Party leader and 2027 presidential aspirant Boniface Mwangi has criticised Mashujaa Day celebrations, arguing that Kenya has yet to achieve the freedom, justice and economic equality envisioned by the country’s independence heroes.
In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Mwangi urged Kenyans to use the national holiday to reflect on the country’s unfinished struggle for freedom rather than celebrate independence.
The activist accused successive governments of failing to fulfil the promises of the independence struggle, citing persistent land inequality, poverty, limited economic opportunities and concerns over constitutional freedoms.
Quoting philosopher George Santayana, who warned that those who forget history risk repeating it, Mwangi challenged Kenyans to remember the sacrifices made by freedom fighters.
“As we mark not celebrate Mashujaa Day, because there is nothing worth celebrating, let us not forget the Kenya our forefathers fought for, bled for, were jailed for, and many died for,” he stated.
Mwangi argued that the struggle for independence was not merely about ending colonial rule but also securing land, dignity and fundamental freedoms for future generations.
“It was for land and freedom yet the majority still have no land, and freedom of speech exists only in theory,” he said.
He further raised concerns over alleged abductions and the treatment of government critics, claiming that citizens risk serious consequences for expressing their views online.
“A simple social media post can get you abducted by the state and murdered,” Mwangi alleged.
His remarks come amid continued public debate over reports of enforced disappearances, abductions and the protection of human rights in Kenya.
The Ukweli Party leader also questioned whether independence had delivered the quality of life envisioned by the country’s founding generation.
He said freedom fighters had hoped for a country where citizens would enjoy access to quality education, healthcare, fair wages and the economic benefits of the country’s resources.
“Our grandparents fought for a Kenya where we govern ourselves, so that every person would have access to good schools and healthcare,” Mwangi stated.
“It was so that we could enjoy the fruits of our land and better wages.”
His comments offered a sharp contrast to the national celebrations led by President William Ruto at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, where the country is honouring individuals who have contributed to Kenya’s development and liberation.
While the national event celebrates the sacrifices and achievements of Kenyan heroes, Mwangi used the occasion to question the country’s progress on governance, human rights and economic equality.
Mwangi linked his criticism to the 2027 General Election, presenting the upcoming polls as an opportunity for Kenyans to pursue what he described as a new Kenya founded on justice, accountability and constitutional freedoms.
“It is not yet Uhuru. That is why in 2027 we will vote for a new Kenya where the dream of our forefathers will finally be realized,” he declared.
The activist, who is seeking the presidency on the Ukweli Party ticket, has increasingly positioned himself within opposition politics as he prepares to challenge President Ruto in the next election.
On October 13, 2026, Mwangi expressed support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s opposition activities, saying he regarded politicians working to remove Ruto’s administration as political allies.
His Mashujaa Day message reinforces his emerging political platform, which places human rights, accountability, economic justice and the fulfilment of the promises of independence at the centre of his presidential bid.
For Mwangi, the national holiday should serve not only as a tribute to Kenya’s heroes but also as a reminder that the struggle for the freedoms and opportunities they envisioned remains unfinished.
