NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenyans have been invited to light candles at 6 pm on Friday, October 2, in a nationwide tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as ODM begins a month of activities marking the first anniversary of his death.
ODM said the candle lighting would take place simultaneously across the country, with gatherings at county headquarters and other designated venues. Kenyans will also be encouraged to participate wherever they are.
In Nairobi, the gathering will begin at Uhuru Park at 3 pm, ahead of the nationwide candle lighting three hours later.
Gatherings in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu
The party named Treasury Square in Mombasa’s central business district and Kisumu Central Square as the venues for gatherings in the two cities.
The event is being organised jointly by ODM and the National Steering Committee overseeing preparations for the first anniversary of Odinga’s death.
According to the party, the plans follow an announcement issued after its Central Committee meeting on September 9.
Odinga died on October 15, 2025. Friday’s tribute will take place nearly two weeks before the anniversary.
October dedicated to remembering Raila
Under the banner #MweziWaBaba, ODM has dedicated October to activities remembering Odinga’s life, political struggles and contribution to Kenya.
The party said the commemorations would give Kenyans an opportunity to reflect on the values he championed and his commitment to the country.
“The party has dedicated the month of October to activities that will give Kenyans an opportunity to remember Baba and bring to memory the values he stood for,” ODM said.
The invitation extends beyond party members, with organisers calling on Kenyans from all walks of life to take part.
“On Friday, Kenyans from all walks of life will be invited to Light up for Baba wherever they will be, at county headquarters and other designated venues,” the party said.
