Kenya is preparing to honour the life and legacy of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga as the country marks the first anniversary of his death. The anniversary commemorations are taking place from October 13 to October 15, 2026, bringing together family members, political leaders, community representatives and supporters who wish to remember the veteran opposition leader.

The key event scheduled for today, Wednesday, October 14, is an international candle-lighting ceremony at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, where Raila was laid to rest. According to the programme announced by the Raila Odinga Memorial Anniversary Committee, his widow, Ida Odinga, will lead the ceremony beginning at 6:00 pm East Africa Time. Kenyans and supporters living abroad have also been invited to light candles at the same time in a coordinated tribute.The candle-lighting ceremony is one of the most significant activities in the programme commemorating Raila Odinga's first death anniversary. The event is being organised under the leadership of the national memorial steering committee, chaired by Professor Adams Oloo.

Ida Odinga is expected to lead family members and other participants in lighting candles at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, the family home and resting place of the late former prime minister.Kang’o ka Jaramogi holds deep historical and personal significance for the Odinga family and the wider community in Siaya County. It is the family home associated with Raila and his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya's first vice-president.

Raila was buried at the family compound following his death in India on October 15, 2025, aged 80. His burial place has since become an important location for people wishing to pay their respects and reflect on his contribution to the country.

The choice of Kang’o ka Jaramogi for the candle-lighting ceremony connects the anniversary directly to the place where Raila's life and family history are commemorated.One of the distinctive features of today's event is the call for Kenyans and friends of Raila Odinga to participate beyond the physical gathering in Bondo.

The memorial committee has encouraged people to light candles in their homes, churches, mosques and community gatherings. Kenyans living abroad are also being encouraged to take part, making the tribute international in scope.

This approach recognises that Raila's political career attracted attention beyond his home county and that his supporters are spread throughout Kenya and the diaspora.Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, while receiving medical treatment in India. His death marked the end of a long public career that had shaped Kenya's multiparty politics, democratic reform debates and national leadership contests.

For decades, Raila was among the most prominent figures in Kenyan public life. He served as prime minister from 2008 to 2013 under the Grand Coalition Government formed after the disputed 2007 general election and the subsequent post-election violence.

His political journey included repeated presidential election campaigns, periods in opposition and participation in major national political agreements.OCTOBER

Intergenerational dialogue in Kisumu

The programme at Ofafa Memorial Hall brings together elders, youth, women and religious leaders to reflect on Raila's legacy and his call for dialogue between generations. Poetry, music and a blood donation exercise are among the reported activities.

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International candle-lighting at Kang’o ka Jaramogi

Ida Odinga is scheduled to lead the ceremony at 6:00 pm, with participants in Kenya and abroad invited to light candles in remembrance.

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Main memorial anniversary in Bondo

The main public memorial gathering is scheduled for Migwena Cultural Grounds, bringing together family members, community representatives, political leaders and invited guests.Thursday, October 15, will mark exactly one year since Raila's death. The main memorial gathering is scheduled to take place at Migwena Cultural Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County.

The organisers have indicated that the gathering will bring together family members, community representatives, political leaders, invited guests and members of the public.

Musical performances by Kenyan and international artistes are expected to form part of the programme, allowing participants to celebrate Raila's life through music and cultural expressionThe anniversary comes at a time when Kenya is preparing for the 2027 general election and political alliances are receiving increasing public attention.

Raila's long political career was closely connected to national debates about elections, constitutional reform, accountability, democratic participation and the relationship between citizens and the government.

His supporters often regarded him as a symbol of resistance and political perseverance. His role in opposition politics also made him a central figure in discussions about democratic competition and the country's changing political arrangements.The memorial committee has called on participants to observe the programme peacefully and respectfully. Such an appeal is important because large commemorative gatherings bring together people with different political views, personal experiences and expectations.

Participants travelling to Bondo are encouraged to follow instructions from event organisers and relevant authorities, respect the family and other mourners, and avoid conduct that could disrupt the occasion.The intergenerational dialogue planned in Kisumu is particularly relevant in this respect. It is intended to bring together different generations to discuss the challenges facing the country and the importance of communication, tolerance and participation.

For younger Kenyans, the anniversary can also provide an opportunity to learn about political developments that shaped the country before they entered public life.

The candle-lighting ceremony similarly offers a peaceful way for people to express their memories and appreciation, regardless of whether they will attend the events in person.

The committee has also warned against fundraising in the name of the Odinga family or the national steering committee without authorisation. Kenyans should therefore be cautious about unofficial fundraising requests claiming to be connected to the anniversary.