The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced a month-long programme to commemorate the first anniversary of its founding leader, Raila Odinga's death. The events, set to start on October 2, 2026, will take place across the country and culminate in a memorial service at Raila's Bondo home on October 15. This programme aims to celebrate Raila's political legacy and contribution to Kenya's democratic struggle. ODM deputy party leader Abdulswamad Nassir urged Kenyans to participate in the commemorations, citing Raila's significant impact on the country's democratic space.
The programme will begin with a nationwide candle-lighting exercise on October 2, from 6 pm to midnight. ODM members and supporters will gather at various locations, including Uhuru Park in Nairobi, Treasury Square in Mombasa, and Kenyatta Avenue in Nakuru. On October 9, a major memorial rally will be held in Kakamega, bringing together supporters from several counties. Family-led activities will then run from October 10 to 15, before the main memorial service in Bondo.
President William Ruto is expected to attend the Bondo memorial service, where he will also unveil a memorial facility under construction at the site. The facility is being built at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya county. ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga described Raila as a towering political figure who left a lasting mark on Kenya. She encouraged Kenyans to light a candle in his honour.
Raila Odinga was one of Kenya's longest-serving opposition leaders and a central figure in the country's politics for decades. He served as Lang'ata MP from 1992 to 2013 and held Cabinet positions under presidents Daniel Moi and Mwai Kibaki. As Prime Minister in the Grand Coalition Government between 2008 and 2013, Raila played a crucial role in the country's 2010 constitutional reform process and several presidential elections.
However, the anniversary has exposed differences over how Raila's legacy should be remembered and who should participate in the commemorations. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka stated that he would not attend events where those he accused of denying Raila victory in previous elections would use his death to advance their political interests. Kalonzo plans to return to Bondo on a later date.
Despite the differences, the month-long programme will serve as a commemoration of ODM's departed leader and an opportunity to keep his political legacy at the centre of national conversation, especially ahead of the 2027 elections. The events are expected to draw national political leaders, members of Raila's family, ODM officials, and supporters from across the country.
The anniversary comes as Raila's legacy continues to shape political alliances and debates ahead of the 2027 elections. ODM's programme will continue after the Bondo event, with activities scheduled in Garissa, the Coast region, Kajiado, and Turkana.
Key points
- President William Ruto to attend Raila's memorial service in Bondo
- ODM launches month-long programme to commemorate Raila Odinga's first death anniversary
- Differences emerge over how to remember Raila's legacy ahead of 2027 elections
