Wajackoyah attends Raila Odinga candlelight vigil in US
Roots Party of Kenya leader Prof George Wajackoyah has attended a candlelight vigil in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Wajackoyah, who served as the chief guest at the event, joined Kenyan leaders, professionals and members of the diaspora in celebrating the life and legacy of the […]
Kenya's Roots Party leader Prof George Wajackoyah took part in a candlelight memorial in Minneapolis, honoring the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. As chief guest, Wajackoyah joined fellow Kenyan leaders, professionals and diaspora members to celebrate Odinga's life and legacy. The vigil, organized by Rep Huldah Hiltsley Momanyi, brought together a diverse group of attendees including Larry Mboga, a three-term Wisconsin mayor, legal professionals, elders and businesspeople.
In a Facebook post, Wajackoyah remembered Odinga, affectionately known as Baba, as a leader whose memory would endure among Kenyans and his political supporters. He wrote, "Raila Amolo Odinga, forever in our hearts," accompanied by candlelight, peace symbols and the Kenyan flag, symbolizing the memorial's focus on honoring the former prime minister.
Wajackoyah's presence in the US comes as Kenyans abroad and at home continue to pay tribute to Odinga's political legacy. Previously, Wajackoyah shared his personal connection to Odinga and his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, revealing he had been a food taster for the elder Odinga while in London. He described Odinga as a leader whose influence transcended his lifetime, stating, "Raila is an enigma and a spirit.
He is not dead; he is just sleeping, as his spirit still lives." Wajackoyah called on political leaders to embrace the values Odinga championed, such as dialogue and unity, rather than hostility towards political adversaries. Days earlier, thousands gathered in Bondo, Kenya, on the first anniversary of Odinga's death to remember the Orange Democratic Movement leader.
The event featured songs, dance, cultural performances and a solemn atmosphere as police ensured attendees entered designated areas. Odinga passed away in India on October 15, 2025, at age 80, after receiving medical care, ending a political career that spanned over five decades. Tributes poured in from across Kenya and the world, reflecting his impact on Kenya's democratic journey and his relationships with political leaders across Africa.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
