The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has released its official programme for a three-day celebration marking 20 years since the party’s founding, with a grand event scheduled in Mombasa County from November 14 to 16.
The milestone will, party officials say, be both a tribute to the late Raila Amolo Odinga’s legacy and a reflection on two decades of political struggle, sacrifice, and service.
Announcing the details, Interim Party Leader Dr Oburu Odinga described the anniversary as “a moment of reflection and gratitude — to honour the past, celebrate the present, and commit to the future.”
“As we commemorate this landmark, we do so in honour of the indelible legacy of our departed Party Leader, the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga — the father of modern democracy in Kenya. His vision, courage, and sacrifice built this movement,” Dr Odinga said.
Celebration of Legacy and Renewal
Dr Oburu noted that the celebrations would begin with a special sitting of the National Governing Council on Thursday, November 13, a day before the public events kick off.
That meeting, he said, will allow members to take stock of ODM’s growth, strengthen its structures, and reaffirm its direction as it enters its third decade.
On Friday, November 14, the programme opens with an ODM Disability League Breakfast (7am–9am), followed by parallel summits for the Women’s League and Youth League (10am–1pm).
The evening will feature a youth concert running late into the night — a nod to the party’s enduring appeal among Kenya’s younger generation.
Honouring Raila Odinga’s Vision
The second day, Saturday, November 15, will shift to Mama Ngina Waterfront, where a major public celebration will centre on Raila Odinga’s life, ideals, and political legacy.
The morning-to-midday session (7:30am–2pm) will include a symbolic recommitment ceremony, where members will pledge to uphold the democratic gains won through ODM’s activism and resilience.
Later that evening, party veterans and dignitaries will gather at Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort for an ODM Founders’ Dinner, bringing together governors, senators, MPs, and long-serving party loyalists.
The weekend will conclude with an inter-religious thanksgiving service, honouring both Raila’s leadership and the broader story of ODM’s two-decade journey.
“This anniversary is not just a celebration — it’s a recommitment,” Dr Odinga said. “Securing ODM’s legacy demands unity, collective responsibility, and a renewed focus on people-centred leadership.”
Rescheduled for Wider Inclusion
The Mombasa commemoration comes after the party rescheduled the event from its original October 10–12 dates. ODM explained that the move was intended to allow more counties and supporters to take part and to ensure broader inclusivity, consistent with the party’s founding values.
The Mombasa finale is expected to draw high-profile political figures, including governors, senators, MPs, and grassroots leaders from across the country.
For ODM, the event marks not just a celebration of its past but also a strategic pause — an opportunity to reassess its role in shaping Kenya’s democratic future.
Twenty years on, the orange torch still burns bright.