- On Tuesday, Ida led an inspection of the preparations, calling on Kenyans to give Raila a fitting farewell and avoid turning the commemoration into a contest between political factions.
- Orengo said the event would be open to all Kenyans wishing to join the family and other mourners in celebrating Raila’s life and contribution to the country.
Preparations are gathering pace at Migwena Grounds in Bondo
ahead of the first anniversary of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s death,
with thousands expected to attend the memorial on October 15, 2026.
As the family and political allies prepare to honour the late
opposition leader, his widow, Ida Odinga, and Siaya Governor James Orengo have
called for peace and political restraint, urging leaders to keep the occasion
focused on remembering his legacy.
With less than 48 hours to the memorial, preparations at
Migwena Grounds are taking shape ahead of the expected gathering of family
members, friends, political allies and former colleagues.
On Tuesday, Ida led an inspection of the preparations, calling
on Kenyans to give Raila a fitting farewell and avoid turning the commemoration
into a contest between political factions.
“The main reason we are here is to commemorate Baba. He
belonged to many people, belonged to denominations, belonged to many parties,
and let’s give him a good sign-off,” Ida said.
Orengo said the event would be open to all Kenyans wishing to
join the family and other mourners in celebrating Raila’s life and contribution
to the country.
“Everybody is welcome on the 15th to be here and be part of
the congregation that will help us remember our son in his true greatness and
glory,” stated Orengo.
Meanwhile, residents in Kisumu marked the anniversary through
an intergenerational dialogue celebrating Raila’s legacy and his calls for
unity, democracy and social cohesion.
Participants used art and other forms of creative expression
to reflect on his vision for Kenya and discuss how younger and older
generations could work together to build a more inclusive society.
“My message to the young people is to have courage to think
differently, courage to travel far and wide, and to have courage to explore and
succeed,” said a resident, Jotham Ajiki.
Another participant, Philip Pande, said the need for
inclusion, equity, and fairness remained central to discussions about the
country’s political future.
“The young people and the political ecosystem are expressing
the need for inclusion, the need for equity, the need for fairness,” said
another resident, Philip Pande.