Frictions have emerged between the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party over the coordination of events marking one year since the statesman’s passing.
The opposition leader passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 in Kerala, India. Ahead of the first anniversary, two distinct planning initiatives have triggered tension over how to honor his legacy.
Shortly after ODM’s announcement, the Odinga family unveiled its own committee led by political scientist Prof. Adams Oloo to coordinate commemorative events during the week of October 15. The family stressed that the anniversary belongs to the public rather than any single political unit or institution.
Tensions surfaced further when key family members, including Ruth Odinga, publicly criticized the early mobilization of party-branded merchandise ahead of the memorial week, urging stakeholders not to commercialize or politicize the occasion.
Despite the organizational friction, both sides agree that the central tribute will take place between October 10 and 15, culminating in a memorial service at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County. Meanwhile, construction remains underway on a state-backed mausoleum and museum dedicated to preserving his contributions to Kenya’s constitutional reform and democratic movement.
