Raila anniversary: Ida Odinga, Governor Orengo call for peace, political tolerance

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.