Thousands of Kenyans have converged at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, to commemorate the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, with music, cultural performances and tributes planned in his honour. The gathering has brought together supporters, admirers and political leaders seeking to celebrate the life and legacy of the veteran politician, who died on October 15, 2025, aged 80, while receiving medical treatment in India.
Crowds Arrive Early for Raila’s Anniversary Celebrations
Attendees began arriving at Migwena Grounds as early as 6 a.m., with groups singing, dancing and sharing memories of the former Prime Minister. Security officers were also deployed to manage the crowds and guide visitors to their designated areas. The event is expected to attract political leaders from Kenya and other African countries, including individuals who worked closely with Raila during his political career. The celebrations are expected to feature musicians from across Kenya and beyond, reflecting the cultural traditions associated with gatherings at Migwena Grounds, a venue with a longstanding connection to the Odinga family.
Ida Odinga Calls for Peace and Unity
Raila Odinga’s widow, Ida Odinga, has urged Kenyans to honour her husband’s memory peacefully and avoid turning the anniversary into a platform for political rivalry. On Tuesday, Ida inspected preparations at the venue and appealed to those attending to ensure the occasion remained focused on celebrating Raila’s life and contribution to the country. She was joined in the call for restraint by Siaya Governor James Orengo, who urged political leaders and supporters to maintain peace throughout the commemorations.
The family has also asked attendees to remain apolitical during the event, noting that Raila championed Pan-Africanism and encouraged unity across political divides. The appeal comes as leaders and supporters from different political backgrounds are expected to gather in Bondo to remember the veteran politician.
Organisers Promise Music and Cultural Tributes
The National Steering Committee overseeing the anniversary celebrations has said the programme will reflect Raila’s close connection with ordinary Kenyans and his appreciation for music and cultural expression. Committee chairman Professor Adams Oloo described Migwena Grounds as a fitting location for the commemoration, citing its historical significance to the Odinga family.
Oloo said musicians from Kenya and beyond would perform in honour of Raila, highlighting the affection he shared with his supporters during his decades in public life. The planned performances and cultural activities are expected to form a central part of the celebrations, providing an opportunity for attendees to reflect on his political journey and public legacy.
Remembering Raila Odinga’s Legacy
Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while in India receiving medical attention. His death marked the end of a political career that spanned several decades and placed him at the centre of Kenya’s political developments. The first-anniversary celebrations in Bondo provide an opportunity for family members, political allies and ordinary Kenyans to remember his contribution to the country and reflect on the ideals he championed. As the commemorations continue, the family and organisers have emphasised the importance of peace, unity and respect, urging attendees to preserve the occasion as a tribute to Raila Odinga’s life and legacy.
