Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna joined family members, political leaders, and thousands of mourners in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to mark the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, as President William Ruto skipped the ceremony.
The memorial, held at Migwena Cultural Grounds, brought together Raila’s family, supporters, and political allies to celebrate his life and political legacy, a year after his death in India at the age of 80.
Sifuna’s attendance came amid growing divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) over its political direction and relationship with Ruto’s administration ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The senator, who has emerged as a prominent figure in the Linda Mwananchi movement, received enthusiastic reactions from sections of the crowd as he reflected on Raila’s mentorship and his contribution to Kenya’s democracy.
East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga also used the occasion to declare her intention to contest the Nairobi senatorial seat, setting the stage for a possible contest with Sifuna, the incumbent.
Meanwhile, Ruto was absent as he continued his development tour of the North Rift, with engagements in Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties.
His absence came barely a week after he visited Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo on October 7 to commission Raila’s mausoleum and hand it over to the family.
Ruto and Raila had a long history of political rivalry before developing a working relationship under the broad-based government arrangement following the 2024 Gen Z protests.
The anniversary unfolded amid questions about ODM’s future following Raila’s death, with competing political factions seeking to define his legacy ahead of the 2027 elections.
The ceremony featured cultural performances, music and tributes celebrating Raila’s contribution to multiparty democracy and Kenya’s political history.
