East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Winnie Odinga has appealed for a political ceasefire as Kenya prepares to mark the first anniversary of her father's death. Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister, passed away on October 15, 2025, in India while receiving medical treatment. Winnie made the call during the handover and dedication of Raila's mausoleum at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County. She urged political leaders and Kenyans to set aside their differences and focus on remembering Raila's life and legacy.
The family has invited people from different political parties, communities, and countries to attend the upcoming memorial, reflecting Raila's influence beyond political boundaries. Winnie emphasized that guests are welcome to hold their political convictions, but urged them to prioritize remembering Raila's life over political differences. The October 15 commemoration is expected to bring together Raila's family, political allies, leaders from different parties, supporters, and members of the public.
Winnie specifically appealed to political leaders and their supporters to ensure that the October 15 commemoration does not become a contest between rival political camps. She encouraged attendees to bring their songs, dances, poems, and personal memories to celebrate Raila's life. The event is scheduled to take place at Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground in Bondo from 8 am.
Winnie also reflected on the personal pain of losing her father, saying that while she could no longer turn to him for his views, Kenyans could continue discussing and upholding the values he represented. She encouraged Kenyans to respect those who contributed to Kenya's freedom. Raila served as the country's second prime minister from 2008 to 2013 and spent decades at the centre of opposition politics and campaigns for political and constitutional reform.
The October 7 ceremony at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi was separate from the October 15 public commemoration. The mausoleum, which serves as the final resting place of both Jaramogi and Raila, was formally handed over and dedicated during a restricted ceremony attended by President William Ruto, members of the Odinga family, and invited guests. The government has said the site will be preserved as part of Kenya's national heritage under the stewardship of the National Museums of Kenya.
Members of the public are expected to begin visiting the mausoleum from October 8, 2026, ahead of the larger anniversary gathering on October 15. Winnie used her speech to remember the ordinary Kenyans who supported Raila throughout his political career, saying many had no titles, escorts, or access to the high table, but stood in the rain, travelled far, and prayed for him.
The memorial is scheduled to take place on October 15, 2026, marking one year since Raila's death. He was 80 years old when he passed away. The event is presented as a non-partisan celebration of his life.
Key points
- Winnie Odinga calls for a political ceasefire ahead of Raila's first anniversary.
- The October 15 commemoration is expected to bring together Raila's family, political allies, and members of the public.
- The mausoleum will be preserved as part of Kenya's national heritage under the stewardship of the National Museums of Kenya.
