Odinga Family Forms Committee For His First Anniversary Commemorations Amid ODM’s “Mwezi wa Baba” Plans

The family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has announced that it will directly coordinate the first anniversary of his passing, emphasizing that the upcoming commemorations will center on ordinary citizens who supported his political journey.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, September 13, 2026, the family confirmed that the official commemoration will take place during the week of October 15. To oversee the proceedings, the family appointed a central planning committee chaired by political scientist Prof. Adams Oloo, a long-serving political advisor to the late leader.

People-Centered Commemoration

Reflecting on Raila’s legacy, the family stressed that the former Prime Minister belonged to the public rather than any single individual, political figure, or institution. They acknowledged that many supporters across the country were unable to bid him a formal farewell following his passing, making it essential to create an inclusive platform for the public to mourn and celebrate his life.

The family instructed anyone wishing to organize, support, or participate in commemorative events to coordinate through Prof. Oloo’s committee to ensure proper planning and nationwide unity.

Parallel ODM Events

The family’s announcement follows a separate program unveiled by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) on September 10, designating the entire month as Mwezi wa Baba. The party’s scheduled activities include nationwide candle-lighting ceremonies beginning October 2, followed by regional memorial rallies celebrating Raila’s contributions to Kenyan democracy and Pan-Africanism.

While ODM plans its month-long political tributes, the Odinga family reiterated that the official anniversary week remains an open, non-partisan space dedicated primarily to the people whose lives he touched.