Lang'ata MP Phelix Odiwour, popularly known as Jalang'o, has announced plans for a candle-lighting ceremony at Uhuru Park in Nairobi on Friday, October 2. The event, scheduled to run from 3 pm until midnight, aims to bring together supporters and Kenyans to remember the late former ODM leader Raila Odinga and celebrate his political legacy. Jalang'o described the event as a strong start to the month of October, which will be dedicated to Raila.
The candle-lighting ceremony is expected to draw ODM leaders, Raila's political allies, supporters, and members of the public. Several leaders, including Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, have confirmed their attendance. Jalang'o urged Kenyans to participate in the remembrance activities, emphasizing the importance of unity and solidarity. The event marks the beginning of a month-long program dedicated to remembering Raila's contribution to Kenya's politics.
Raila Odinga, a major figure in Kenya's opposition politics, played a central role in shaping the country's political landscape over several years. His political career included serving as Prime Minister in the coalition government between 2008 and 2013, while he unsuccessfully contested the presidency several times. The October program provides an opportunity for his supporters and political associates to celebrate his legacy and reflect on his contribution to Kenya's political and democratic development.
The Uhuru Park event will bring Raila's supporters together in Nairobi at a time when ODM continues to navigate the political landscape following his death. ODM has announced a series of activities during the month, including rallies across the country. The party aims to engage its members and supporters in various regions, providing a platform for them to pay tribute to Raila.
ODM's program includes a major memorial rally in Kakamega Town on October 9, which will bring together supporters from counties in the Western Kenya region. The party has listed Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Bungoma, and Trans Nzoia among the counties expected to participate in the event. This rally is part of a broader effort to engage ODM members and supporters across different regions.
From October 10 to 15, Raila's family will lead a series of memorial activities that will culminate in the main memorial service at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo. The program will then move to Northern Kenya, where ODM plans to hold a memorial rally in Garissa Town on October 17. This event will bring together ODM members and supporters from Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo, and Marsabit counties.
The month-long program will conclude with a major memorial rally in Nairobi County on October 31, after a series of events in various regions, including the Coast region on October 18 and 19, Kajiado County on October 21, and Turkana County between October 23 and 25. These events aim to provide a platform for ODM members and supporters to pay tribute to Raila and reflect on his legacy.
Key points
- A candle-lighting ceremony will be held at Uhuru Park on October 2 to honor Raila Odinga.
- ODM has planned a series of activities across the country to celebrate Raila's legacy.
- The month-long program aims to engage ODM members and supporters in various regions.
