The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has dedicated the entire month of October 2026 to honouring its late founder, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The party has named the programme “Mwezi wa Baba”, meaning “The Month of Baba”. It will feature candle-lighting ceremonies, memorial rallies and family-led activities across the country.
ODM said the programme will celebrate Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democracy and his belief in Pan-Africanism.
The activities will begin on October 2 with a nationwide candle-lighting ceremony. Supporters will be expected to light candles at 6pm, either alone or in organised groups, to remember the former Prime Minister.
On October 9, ODM will hold a major memorial rally in Kakamega Town. The event will bring together party members and supporters from Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties.
From October 10 to 15, Raila’s family will lead a series of memorial activities. The events will end with the main memorial service at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
The party will then move to Northern Kenya, where it plans to hold a memorial rally in Garissa Town on October 17.
The rally will bring together supporters from Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo and Marsabit counties.
Memorial activities will continue in the Coast region on October 18 and 19. On October 20, Kenyans will mark Mashujaa Day.
Raila is among 242 Kenyans nominated to receive posthumous hero status for his contribution as a statesman, patriot and constitutional reformer.
ODM will hold more activities in Kajiado on October 21, followed by events in Turkana from October 23 to 25. The month-long programme will end with a major rally in Nairobi on October 31.
Raila died in Kerala, India, on October 15, 2025, aged 80, while receiving medical treatment.
The government is also working to preserve his legacy. The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has announced plans to preserve condolence messages received from around the world at national institutions.
A Sh30 million project is also planned to establish a museum and mausoleum in Bondo as a lasting tribute to Raila’s life and work.
MWEZI WA BABA pic.twitter.com/cCl7ZI3mTo
— The ODM Party (@TheODMparty) September 10, 2026