Kenyan celebrities have taken to social media to remember former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, sharing emotional messages, personal photographs and videos on Thursday, October 15, as the country marks one year since his death.
Among those paying tribute are rappers Khaligraph Jones and Octopizzo, comedian Eric Omondi, media personality Janet Mbugua and Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o. Their messages reflect personal memories of Raila and the influence he had beyond the political arena.
Khaligraph Jones described Raila as his hero in a message shared on social media, writing, “Forever my Hero Baba.” The rapper, popularly known as Papa Jones, also shared a video showing him wearing a custom black T-shirt featuring the late politician’s portrait on the front and the word “Jowi” on the back.
Jalang’o also shared an emotional tribute titled “Black Wednesday”, reflecting on the pain of losing the former Prime Minister and the memories he left behind.
“One year later, the tears still fall, and the name of Baba still echoes through us all,” Jalang’o wrote, adding that Raila’s legacy would remain in the hearts of Kenyans.
Eric Omondi remembered Raila through a video showing the former Prime Minister embracing him during the burial of his younger brother, Fred Omondi, in June 2024. The comedian thanked Raila for the support he extended to his family during the difficult period.
“Thank you, Baba, for all you gave. Keep resting,” Eric wrote in his anniversary message, recalling a personal moment that went beyond Raila’s public life.
Octopizzo also shared old photographs of himself with Raila on his Instagram Story. The rapper had spoken about their encounters during an interview with Homeboyz Radio on October 14, recalling how he was introduced to Raila through his late son, Fidel Odinga, and how the former Prime Minister treated him during their interactions.
Media personality Janet Mbugua reflected on Raila’s longstanding place in Kenya’s political landscape, noting that the 2027 General Election would be the first she could remember without his name appearing on the ballot.
“A year since Raila Amolo Odinga passed, and 2027 will be the first election I can remember without his name somewhere in it. That still feels strange,” she wrote. She also acknowledged that Kenyans held different political opinions about Raila but recognised his ability to command national attention and encourage dialogue.
Musician Prince Indah has also paid tribute to Raila during the anniversary commemorations. Following a performance at the candle-lighting event at Uhuru Park on October 2, he described the experience as painful. His tribute was shared earlier in the commemorative period, rather than on October 15 itself.
Beyond entertainment, family members and political leaders have also shared messages remembering the former Prime Minister.
Raila’s brother, Oburu Oginga, shared a portrait of him with the message, “So long, my brother,” as the family marked the first anniversary of his death.
His relative Jaoko Oburu also posted on X, remembering Raila as a hero, leader and father whose service to Kenya would remain in the hearts of those he left behind.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen published a poem titled “One Year On, Baba Lives On”, reflecting on Raila’s contribution to the country and calling on Kenyans to preserve the values of peace, democracy and courage.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also credited Raila with shaping her political journey, saying he gave her a platform, offered guidance and opened doors that helped her rise in politics. She urged ODM leaders to protect the party’s unity and preserve his political legacy.
Raila died in India on October 15, 2025, aged 80, while receiving medical treatment. His death ended a political career spanning decades, during which he became a central figure in Kenya’s multiparty democracy movement and national politics.
The anniversary tributes reflect the different ways Kenyans remember Raila, from personal encounters and family memories to his influence on music, media and political leadership.
