The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is set to flex its political muscle in Nairobi on Saturday with a mega rally at Jacaranda Grounds, marking the end of month-long commemorations of Raila Odinga's death. Thousands of delegates and supporters are expected to attend the event, which will also provide a platform for political discussions as the party positions itself ahead of the 2027 General Election.
ODM Nairobi chairman and Makadara MP George Aladwa said preparations for the event were complete, with over 1,000 delegates expected from Nairobi alone. He said the gathering would mark the climax of Mwezi wa Baba, a month dedicated to commemorating the first anniversary of Raila's death. Aladwa expressed confidence that the event would be a success, with over 100,000 delegates expected to attend.
The rally comes as ODM seeks to consolidate its support base and demonstrate its political strength in the capital ahead of the next elections. Jacaranda Grounds has become a prominent venue for political mobilisation in Nairobi, making Saturday's gathering another test of the party's ability to draw supporters. The event is expected to attract top party officials and politicians from across the country.
Aladwa said the meeting would not be limited to commemorating Raila's political legacy but would also provide an opportunity for leaders to discuss the party's political future. He said Nairobi ODM lawmakers had held their final planning meeting on Friday to ensure the rally was successful. The party had also engaged aspirants seeking various elective positions and welcomed them to participate in the gathering.
The Makadara MP thanked President William Ruto for supporting ODM during the month-long commemorations. He praised the party leadership for bringing members together to honour Raila, singling out ODM leader Oburu Oginga, national chairperson Gladys Wanga, and deputy party leaders Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir for their roles in the commemorations.
Aladwa said Oburu, who is recovering from illness, had been requested to address Saturday's gathering virtually. He also acknowledged the support of senior ODM figures Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, John Mbadi, and Opiyo Wandayi. The party had received assurances of adequate security from the police, and Aladwa thanked Nairobi MPs, MCAs, and party youth for their contribution towards organising the event.
The rally will be open to members of the public, including supporters who are not registered ODM delegates. Throughout October, ODM officials have held meetings in various parts of the country to commemorate Raila's death and engage party supporters. Saturday's gathering will bring those activities to a close, with attention expected to shift towards ODM's political direction and preparations for the 2027 polls.
Key points
- ODM is holding a mega rally at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi to mark the end of month-long commemorations of Raila Odinga's death.
- The rally is expected to attract over 100,000 delegates and provide a platform for political discussions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
- The event will mark the climax of Mwezi wa Baba, a month dedicated to commemorating the first anniversary of Raila's death.
