The Orange Democratic Movement has announced a countrywide candle-lighting ceremony on Friday, October 2, to commemorate one year since the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The event, scheduled for 6pm, will take place simultaneously across the country, with Kenyans invited to light candles at county headquarters and other designated venues. This ceremony is part of the #MweziWaBaba campaign, dedicated to remembering Raila and reflecting on his values and contributions to Kenyan society.
The candle-lighting ceremony has been organised in conjunction with the National Steering Committee on preparations for the first anniversary of the Raila Odinga Memorial. ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga urged Kenyans in the country and abroad to participate, describing Raila as "Baba", "Agwambo Wuod Nyalego", and "the father of devolution". Wanga said in a post on X that Raila's legacy continues to live in the hearts of a nation, despite his passing.
In Nairobi, the main candle-lighting event will be held at the Uhuru Park Grounds, starting from 3pm, with the candle-lighting taking place at 6pm. Other major cities, including Mombasa and Kisumu, will host their events at Treasury Square in the Central Business District and Kisumu Central Square, respectively. The party has invited Kenyans from all walks of life to "Light up for Baba" wherever they will be.
Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80, while receiving medical treatment in India. His death was followed by a state funeral and nationwide mourning, before he was buried at his family home in Bondo, Siaya County. The October 2 candle-lighting ceremony will precede the first anniversary of his death.
The #MweziWaBaba campaign, launched by ODM, will feature various activities throughout the month of October. The campaign aims to give Kenyans an opportunity to remember Raila and reflect on the values he stood for, the causes he championed, and his contribution to Kenyan society.
ODM made the announcement after a Central Committee meeting held on September 9, 2026. The party has encouraged Kenyans to participate in the candle-lighting ceremony, describing it as a unique opportunity to honour Raila's memory.
The nationwide candle-lighting ceremony is one of the key events marking the first anniversary of Raila Odinga's death. Kenyans are expected to come together to light candles and pay tribute to the former Prime Minister.
Key points
- The nationwide candle-lighting ceremony will take place on October 2 at 6pm.
- The event will be held simultaneously across the country, with designated venues in major cities.
- The ceremony is part of the #MweziWaBaba campaign, dedicated to remembering Raila Odinga and reflecting on his contributions to Kenyan society.
