Migwena Grounds draw crowds as Kenyans mark first anniversary of Raila’s death

Thousands of Kenyans gathered at Migwena grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday to commemorate the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, with music, dance and tributes marking the occasion.

Mourners began arriving as early as 6am, as police officers remained on standby to guide attendees into designated areas and maintain order.

The gathering brought together Raila’s supporters and admirers to celebrate his life and reflect on his political legacy.

As preparations for the commemoration reached their final stages, the Odinga family appealed to political leaders and attendees to keep partisan politics out of the event.

Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, and Siaya Governor James Orengo called for restraint, urging leaders to preserve the occasion as a moment of remembrance rather than a platform for political rivalry.

Ida had led an inspection of the preparations on Tuesday, asking Kenyans to give her late husband a fitting commemoration without turning the gathering into a contest between political factions.

The family described Raila as a committed Pan-Africanist who championed unity across political divides.

The programme features music and cultural performances, reflecting the traditions associated with Migwena grounds, a venue with longstanding ties to the Odinga family and the local community.

Prof Adams Oloo, chairman of the National Steering Committee for the anniversary celebrations, said the grounds offered an appropriate setting to honour the former Prime Minister.

“It will be a celebration worthy of the man. Musicians from across the country and beyond will take to the stage to honour him in song, because Raila Odinga loved the people, and the people loved him back,” Oloo said.

Raila died on October 15, 2025, aged 80, while receiving medical attention in India.