Babu Owino to Host Raila Memorial at Jacaranda Grounds Friday
Owino has invoked the "Mwezi wa Baba" theme adopted by ODM for October remembrance. His event places his gathering within the wider nationwide programme honouring the former Prime Minister.
Jacaranda Holds Special Significance in Raila's Political Journey
Jacaranda Grounds holds particular meaning in Raila's decades-long political history and opposition struggle. The venue hosted major political gatherings throughout Raila's years mobilising supporters in Nairobi.
"Jacaranda was a place very dear to Baba," Owino said in his invitation. "It holds many memories of his journey, his people, and the struggle for a better Kenya."
ODM Designates October as Month to Honour "Baba"
ODM has designated October as "Mwezi wa Baba" and scheduled nationwide candle-lighting activities. The party's main Nairobi gathering will be held at Uhuru Park beginning at 3:00PM.
ODM's nationwide candle-lighting exercise is scheduled for Friday at 6:00PM simultaneously. Other designated venues include Kisumu Central Square and Mombasa's Treasury Square across the country.
Multiple Nairobi Venues Mark Raila's First Death Anniversary
The Jacaranda ceremony becomes one of several gatherings taking place in Nairobi simultaneously. Raila's supporters are marking nearly one year since his death on October 15, 2025.
Raila died in India aged 80 after a political career spanning several decades. He was later buried at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
Family Plans Separate International Candle-Lighting October 14
Raila's family, through the National Steering Committee chaired by Prof Adams Oloo, has announced plans. An official international candle-lighting ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14 at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo.
The ceremony will be led by Raila's widow, Ida Odinga, from 6:00PM East Africa Time. Kenyans and people abroad are invited to light candles simultaneously in his memory.
Family Committee Blesses ODM's October 2 Candle-Lighting Initiative
The family-led committee has welcomed the October 2 candle-lighting being organized by ODM. The committee "gladly gives its blessings" to Nairobi County and ODM's remembrance initiative.
However, the two programmes have different organizing structures and political orientations nationwide. ODM's activities centre on Raila's political legacy as the party's founding leader.
Anniversary Marked Through Multiple Gatherings Across Kenya
Raila's first anniversary will be marked not through a single ceremony but many gatherings. His family, ODM, political leaders and supporters across the country are organizing separate events.
The October 14 candle-lighting will come one day before the main anniversary. October 15 marks one year since Raila's death and Kenya's broader national reflection period.
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