NAIROBI, Kenya- The family of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has formed a committee to coordinate activities marking the first anniversary of his death.
In a statement issued on Sunday, September 13, 2026, the family said the committee would be chaired by Prof Adams Oloo and would oversee commemorative events planned for the week of the 15th.
The committee is developing a programme of activities that will be announced once arrangements are complete.
“As we approach the first anniversary of the passing of our beloved Raila Amolo Odinga, our family is deeply conscious that Baba belonged to the people,” the family said.
It noted that generations of Kenyans had walked with the veteran opposition leader through political victories and disappointments and had made his journey part of their own.
The family acknowledged that many of Raila’s supporters did not have an opportunity to mourn him as they would have wished or to say goodbye following his death.
“We therefore want this first anniversary to give the people their moment with Baba — to remember him, mourn him, celebrate him and honour the journey they shared with him,” the statement read.
Individuals, organisations and groups wishing to participate in, support or organise activities during the anniversary have been asked to work through the committee.
According to the family, central coordination will help ensure that the commemorative activities are inclusive, properly organised and united around Raila’s memory.
“We want to assure everyone: Baba’s people will not be left behind,” it said.
The family promised to accommodate people from different communities, generations and parts of the country, as well as those who interacted with Raila during various stages of his public and private life.
It also stressed that the anniversary would not be controlled by any individual or institution but would belong to the people whose lives were touched by the former Prime Minister.
“This anniversary belongs neither to an individual nor to an institution. It belongs to the people whose lives Baba touched,” the family said.
“As a family, our responsibility is to make sure they have their chance to remember him.”
The family asked Kenyans for patience as Prof Oloo’s committee completes preparations and finalises the commemorative programme. Further details, including the venues and schedule of events, will be announced later.
