NEWS IN: Babu Owino and Edwin Sifuna Land at the Kisumu Airport Ahead of Raila’s 1st Anniversary

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna arrived at Kisumu International Airport on Thursday morning, October 15, 2026, as they travelled to Bondo, Siaya County, to attend the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.

The two leaders were among thousands of Kenyans expected to converge on Bondo to honour the late opposition chief, whose death on October 15, 2025, marked a significant moment in the country’s political history.

Their arrival attracted attention amid heightened political interest surrounding the anniversary celebrations, which have brought together leaders, family members, supporters and political allies to reflect on Raila’s life and legacy.

The main commemorative event is scheduled to take place at Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground in Bondo, where members of the public and invited guests are expected to pay tribute to the former Prime Minister.

The anniversary activities form part of a three-day programme organised to celebrate Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democracy, political development and national unity.

On Wednesday evening, Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, led a candle-lighting ceremony at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, providing family members, political leaders and supporters with an opportunity to remember the veteran politician ahead of Thursday’s main event.

Sifuna and Babu have maintained a close political relationship under the Linda Mwananchi movement, with the two frequently appearing together at public gatherings and political events.

Their attendance comes at a time when Sifuna is positioning himself for a bigger political role ahead of the 2027 General Election. He recently launched The Equitable Party, a political vehicle through which he has expressed his presidential ambitions.

Babu, who has publicly supported Sifuna’s political ambitions, had earlier confirmed that he would attend the anniversary celebrations despite concerns about possible disruptions.

Their presence in Kisumu placed them among several political leaders expected to travel to Bondo for the memorial gathering.

The event has also attracted interest because invitations were extended to leaders across the political divide, raising expectations of possible encounters involving President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

Raila’s family has emphasised that the anniversary should provide an opportunity for Kenyans to celebrate his life and reflect on his legacy rather than turn the occasion into a platform for political confrontation.

Guests have also been urged to maintain peace and demonstrate tolerance during the commemorations.

For many supporters, Babu and Sifuna’s arrival represents a tribute to a leader whose political influence extended beyond Nyanza and shaped several key moments in Kenya’s history.

As the country remembers Raila one year after his death, his legacy continues to feature prominently in national political discussions, particularly as leaders and parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Bondo gathering is expected to bring together people from different generations and political backgrounds, united by their memories of the former Prime Minister and his decades-long involvement in Kenya’s public affairs.

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