Kenyan fashion designer Bolo Bespoke has shared an emotional tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, remembering the personal moments they shared while working together.
Bolo took to Instagram on Friday, October 2, to reflect on Raila’s absence as the country prepares to mark one year since his death.
The designer, who was responsible for making some of Raila’s outfits, recalled the ordinary conversations and interactions they had while working on the former prime minister’s clothes.
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“Ohh BABA… It has been one whole year without shaking your hand, sharing a cup of tea with you, calling you to confirm the fabric and design for your next outfit, hearing your voice face to face,” Bolo wrote.
He said that although time had passed, the memories of their interactions remained vivid.
“One year later, the silence still hurts. All we have now are the memories, the history we shared,” he added.
Bolo went on to describe the emptiness left by Raila’s death.
“Since you left us, Baba, there has been a silence that words cannot explain,” he wrote.
Bolo remembers Raila’s legacy.
The fashion designer also spoke about the continued impact of Raila’s absence on those who knew him and admired his work.
“Your absence is deeply felt. Your voice is dearly missed, and your memory lives in the hearts of all who loved and admired you,” Bolo said.
He concluded the tribute by reflecting on the legacy Raila left behind.
“You left behind a legacy that time can never erase. Continue resting peacefully, Baba Raila,” he wrote.
Bolo’s tribute came as remembrance events were being held across the country on Friday.
A candle-lighting ceremony was held at Uhuru Park in Nairobi as part of the month-long Mwezi wa Baba programme.
Similar events were held in other parts of the country, while Raila’s life and legacy were projected onto the KICC tower later that evening.
Bolo’s connection to Raila
Bolo was more than just a designer working on Raila’s clothes. His tribute shows that their relationship also involved regular conversations and personal interactions around the outfits he created for the former prime minister.
The designer has previously spoken publicly about the emotional experience of making clothes connected to the Odinga family after Raila’s death.
In October 2025, Bolo revealed that making the dress worn by Ida Odinga during Raila’s funeral was one of the most difficult assignments of his career.
