Winny Odinga shakes hands with President William Ruto during the commissioning of Raila Odinga mausoleum in Bondo on October 7, 2026/PCSEALA MP Winnie Odinga has called for a political ceasefire ahead of the October 15 commemoration of her father, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Winnie urged leaders across the political divide to set aside their differences and focus on celebrating his life and legacy
Speaking during the handover and dedication of Raila’s mausoleum at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, the legislator said the family had invited Kenyans from across the political, ethnic and regional divide to join them in remembering Raila.
She said the event would bring together people with different political convictions, including guests from neighbouring countries and beyond.
“On October 15 we have invited people of different political inclination, from different tribes and communities, from neighbouring countries and beyond to join us in celebrating the memory of Baba,” Winnie said.
She acknowledged that those attending the commemoration would not necessarily share the same political views, saying the family was not asking anyone to abandon their beliefs.
“We may hold different political convictions; we may disagree strongly about the direction of our country, but you are welcome here. Nobody is being asked to surrender their beliefs at the gate,” she said.
Winnie, however, urged political leaders and their supporters to avoid turning the occasion into a political contest, saying the day should remain focused on Raila’s memory.
“As a family, we call for a political ceasefire in his honour,” she said.
She appealed to those attending to ensure that October 15 does not become a platform for political competition or confrontation.
“Please let 15th be a day of remembrance and celebration. It should not become a political showground, a competition of who owns the crowd, who receives the loudest cheers or who can embarrass another guest,” Winnie said.
Her remarks came as the Odinga family prepares for a major public commemoration of Raila across various parts of the country this month.
The ODM party has rolled out a month-long commemorative calendar dubbed "Mwezi wa Baba" to mark one year since the passing of Raila.
The commemorations will formally conclude on October 31, 2026, with a final memorial rally hosted in Nairobi County.
President William Ruto presided over the commissioning and handover of the Raila mausoleum.
