Honoring “Baba”- ODM Mobilizes Kenya For October Candlelight Memorial

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called on citizens across Kenya to participate in a synchronized nationwide candlelight memorial on October 2 to mark the first death anniversary of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Announcing the initiative, ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga declared the entirety of October as “Mwezi wa Baba” (Father’s Month). She urged Kenyans from all walks of life to light candles simultaneously at 6:00 PM on October 2 from their homes, places of work, schools, and public spaces to honor the veteran leader’s enduring legacy.

A designated steering body, appointed by the Odinga family and chaired by Professor Adams Oloo, will manage the full calendar of memorial activities throughout the month. Raila Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while undergoing medical treatment in India, ending a transformative political career that shaped Kenya’s democratic landscape for decades.

This month of national reflection comes at a crucial juncture for the orange party. Following Raila’s death, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga assumed the post of interim party leader before his formal confirmation at a Special Delegates Convention. However, ODM continues to navigate internal friction over its strategic direction, particularly regarding its relationship with President William Ruto’s administration versus maintaining an active opposition role.

By framing October not merely as a period of mourning but as a celebration of political heritage, ODM hopes to unite its supporters, reinforce the party’s foundational identity, and preserve Raila Odinga’s influence for future generations.