“The Silence Still Hurts”- Designer Bolo Bespoke Pays Emotional Tribute To Raila Odinga One Year Later

Fashion designer Bolo Bespoke has paid an emotional tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to mark nearly one year since his passing, reflecting on their close working relationship and personal moments shared over the years.

In an Instagram post on Friday, October 2, 2026, the designer—who tailored many of Odinga’s signature outfits—shared his grief over the loss of the veteran political figure he affectionately called “Baba”.

“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. “One year later, the silence still hurts. All we have now are the memories, the history we shared. Since you left us, Baba, there has been a silence that words cannot explain.”

He added:

“Your absence is deeply felt. Your voice is dearly missed, and your memory lives in the hearts of all who loved and admired you. You left behind a legacy that time can never erase. Continue resting peacefully, Baba Raila.”

Nationwide Tributes Ahead of First Anniversary

Bolo’s tribute coincided with nationwide memorial events held on Friday evening, October 2, where thousands of citizens gathered for candle-lighting ceremonies across the country.

The main gathering took place at Uhuru Park in Nairobi as part of the “Mwezi wa Baba” month of remembrance. Attendees brought flowers, portraits, and candles, participating in a program that featured musical performances, interfaith prayers led by Pastor Robert Burale, and appearances by artists such as Solomon Mkubwa, Prince Indah, Elisha Toto, and Emmanuel Musili. Later in the evening, visual projections detailing Odinga’s life story and political journey were displayed on the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) tower.

Similar candle-lighting ceremonies took place in major urban centers, including Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret.

The memorial activities mark the start of a month-long commemoration leading up to October 15, 2026, which marks exactly one year since Raila Odinga passed away at age 80 while undergoing treatment in India. He was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, where an official mausoleum is scheduled to be unveiled as part of the final anniversary events.