Kenya Commemorates First Anniversary of Raila Odinga's Death
Ida Odinga and ODM leadership call for a peaceful, non-political remembrance of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on the first anniversary of his death.
Kenya marked the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 15, 2026. Ahead of the commemoration at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Ida Odinga recounted the final moments of her husband's life, stating that he appeared well and discussed ordinary matters the evening before he passed away in India on October 15, 2025. She described how her daughter, Winnie Odinga, eventually informed her that Raila had collapsed during a walk and died following resuscitation efforts in an intensive care unit.
As the nation gathered in Siaya County, Otiende Amollo, Vice Chair of the Orange Democratic Movement, warned political leaders against transforming the memorial into a political contest. Amollo urged attendees to avoid mobilizing supporters via buses or using the gathering to showcase political strength and discuss future terms. He characterized the event as a family, religious, and cultural occasion rather than an arena for political contestation.
Ida Odinga echoed these sentiments, calling for a solemn remembrance. She urged Kenyans to maintain tolerance and avoid violence when disagreeing with others while honoring the legacy of the former Prime Minister, who served as Kenya's head of government from 2008 to 2013.
