The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced a month-long programme of activities to commemorate the first anniversary of the death of its founder, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The party has dedicated October to honouring Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democracy and Pan-Africanism, with activities planned across different parts of the country.
ODM said the programme, dubbed “Mwezi wa Baba”, will begin on October 2 with a nationwide candle-lighting ceremony in memory of Raila.
“Kenyans will be requested to light candles wherever they are, either in organised groups or individually, in remembrance of BABA,” the party said in a press statement.
The candle-lighting ceremony will take place at 6 pm across the country, according to the party.
ODM will then hold a major memorial rally in Kakamega Town on October 9, bringing together supporters from counties in the Western Kenya region.
The party listed Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Bungoma and Trans Nzoia among the counties expected to participate in the event.
From October 10 to 15, the party said Raila’s family would lead a series of memorial activities that will culminate in the main memorial service at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo.
The programme will then move to Northern Kenya, where ODM plans to hold a memorial rally in Garissa Town on October 17.
The Garissa event will bring together ODM members and supporters from Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo and Marsabit counties.
The party has also scheduled memorial activities in the Coast region on October 18 and 19 before the country marks Mashujaa Day on October 20.
ODM will hold further memorial activities in Kajiado County on October 21, followed by events in Turkana County between October 23 and 25.
The month-long programme will conclude with a major memorial rally in Nairobi County on October 31.
In announcing the programme, ODM recalled Raila’s contribution to the party and the country, describing his death as a deeply painful moment for his supporters and Kenyans.
“October marks one year since the demise of the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, the founder of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party,” the statement said.
“It was a tearful moment; we were all heartbroken. God plucked the best flower from our midst,” the party added.
ODM said the activities were intended to recognise Raila’s “tireless contribution to our country's democracy and his Pan-Africanism”.
The party also urged its supporters to use the commemoration period to reflect on and uphold the principles associated with the former Prime Minister.
“We urge all our supporters to rededicate their commitment to Baba's ideals,” ODM said.
Raila, who was a central figure in Kenya’s opposition politics for decades, founded ODM and remains one of its most influential figures.
