Mama Ida Odinga has invited Kenyans to honour the memory of her late husband with a candle-lighting ceremony, a day before the one-year mark of his passing.
The verified post, shared on Tuesday, October 13, carried a flyer announcing the event for Wednesday, October 14, at 6:00 PM East Africa Time.
What we know about Raila’s candlelighting
The tribute is themed around the words Ida herself used to describe Raila:
“A loving husband, father to my children, life long companion, visionary, a freedom fighter, a leader.”
Raila died on October 15 at the age of 80 in Kerala, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest while receiving medical treatment.
President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning following the news of his death.
How Kenyans are marking Raila’s 1st death anniversary
A three-day memorial programme began on October 13 and culminates on Thursday, October 15, the official anniversary date.
The main ceremony is scheduled for 8:00 AM at Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground in Bondo, Siaya County, with family events also centred on Raila’s ancestral home, Kang’o ka Jaramogi.
A memorial mass forms part of the family remembrance activities, and the Kenya Defence Forces has been involved in the construction of the Raila Odinga mausoleum.
For Kenyans unable to travel to Siaya, the candle-lighting ceremony announced by Ida provides a way to participate in the national moment from wherever they are.
Similar vigils and local dialogues have been organised in various counties throughout the week.
The Odinga family, led by Ida and daughter Winnie Odinga, has called on Kenyans to use the anniversary for national reflection rather than political rivalry.
Siaya Governor James Orengo and other leaders have echoed that call, urging politicians across the divide to observe a political ceasefire during the commemorations.
See the announcement in the post below:
Kenyans weigh in
The post drew an outpouring of emotion from followers who shared their personal connections to Raila’s legacy.
Mc’Jajok Kessy wrote:
“Thank you for allowing him during his lifetime to be ‘baba’ to all Kenyans.”
Walter Oruoch said:
“I grew up knowing that Raila was GOD because of portraits and calendars in my grandmother’s house wall in both bedroom and sitting room and in our house too akhy Baba.”
Alex Mwanz reflected:
“We have so many prominent leaders who have died in our country but we forgets about them and moves on very quickly but about Raila this one hits so differently we are still hurt/mourning still in grief the guy was loved and he will remain in so many people’s SOULS for long keep RIP Baba.”
Steve Mwangi added:
“We need to keep Baba’s legacy by standing firm and fulfilling his desire and dream for the people.”
Clint De Onowu simply wrote:
“Eh! Baba Rest in peace Jakom.”
