Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s widow, Ida Odinga, has called on Kenyans to light candles in his memory on Wednesday evening, a day before the first anniversary of his death.
The post, shared on Tuesday, October 13, carried a flyer announcing that the ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 14, at 6:00 PM East Africa Time.
What we know about the candle-lighting
The tribute is themed around words Ida used to describe her late husband:
“A loving husband, father to my children, life long companion, visionary, a freedom fighter, a leader.”
Raila died on October 15 last year, aged 80, in Kerala, India. He suffered a cardiac arrest while receiving medical treatment. President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning.
How Kenyans are marking the anniversary
A three-day memorial programme began on October 13 and ends on Thursday, October 15, the official anniversary.
The main ceremony will begin at 8:00 AM at Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground in Bondo, Siaya County. Family events will be centred on Raila’s ancestral home, Kang’o ka Jaramogi.
A memorial mass is part of the family’s remembrance activities. The Kenya Defence Forces has also been involved in building the Raila Odinga mausoleum.
For Kenyans who cannot travel to Siaya, the candle-lighting ceremony offers a way to join the national moment from wherever they are.
Vigils and local dialogues have also been organised in various counties throughout the week.
Reflection, not rivalry
The Odinga family, led by Ida and her daughter Winnie Odinga, has urged Kenyans to use the anniversary for national reflection rather than political rivalry.
Governor James Orengo of Siaya and other leaders have echoed the family’s appeal, asking politicians on all sides to set aside political differences while the commemorations last.
Kenyans weigh in
The post drew an outpouring of emotion from followers, many of whom spoke of their personal ties to Raila’s legacy.
@Mc’Jajok Kessy: Thank you for allowing him during his lifetime to be ‘ baba’ to all Kenyans.
@Walter Oruoch :“I grew up knowing that Raila was GOD.”
@Alex Mwanz :“We are still hurt, still mourning, still in grief. The guy was loved and he will remain in so many people’s souls for long.”
@Steve Mwangi: “We need to keep Baba’s legacy by standing firm and fulfilling his desire and dream for the people.”
