The family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has established a national steering committee to coordinate activities marking his first death anniversary. Raila’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, officially commissioned the committee during a press briefing at Capitol Hill in Nairobi on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
Ida said the committee’s main responsibility will be to coordinate the planned activities and provide an opportunity for Raila’s supporters and Kenyans from different backgrounds to remember, mourn and celebrate his life. The committee is chaired by Prof. Adams Oloo and deputised by Rarieda MP Dr. Otiende Amollo. It brings together representatives from government, political institutions, civil society, academia, the private sector and the Raila Odinga family. Among those present during the briefing were Raila Odinga Jr, Nominated Senator Crystal Asige and former Attorney General Amos Wako.
Ida said the anniversary celebrations would be inclusive, emphasising that the occasion belongs to Raila’s supporters and all Kenyans who wish to participate. The committee is expected to prepare and publicly release a calendar of activities covering October 10 to October 17. Individuals, communities and organisations interested in taking part will also receive information on how they can participate.
The celebrations will focus on remembering Raila’s life and the interests he was associated with, including sports, music, public debate and community engagement. Prof. Oloo praised Ida for standing by Raila throughout his long political career, describing her as a key part of his journey. He further said the celebrations would remain family-led and that any partnerships entered into by the committee would have the approval of the Raila family.
Raila Odinga’s Political Legacy
Raila Odinga was one of Kenya’s prominent political figures and played a major role in the country’s democratic politics. He spent part of his early political life in detention and exile during the administration of former President Daniel arap Moi. He entered Parliament in 1992 and later served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 under President Mwai Kibaki. He also unsuccessfully contested the presidency in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017 and 2022.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India, at the age of 80. At the time of his death, he was part of the broad-based government formed through a political partnership with President William Ruto. His first death anniversary will therefore provide an opportunity for his family, supporters and other Kenyans to reflect on his life, political career and legacy.
