The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced that it will hold its 20th anniversary celebrations in Kisii County, a region considered one of the party’s strongholds in the Nyanza region.
Party officials among them Kisii Governor Simba Arati, revealed on Tuesday that preparations are underway for a grand fete scheduled for September 27, 2025 marking two decades since the party’s formation in 2005.
Party leader Raila Odinga is among guests expected to grace the function, said Minority leader Junet Mohammed.
Arati, in a press conference outside his office, said he does not anticipate any chaos .
“We are looking forward to peaceful function and if there are people who want to hold any other political event that day they can use other alternative venues like Nyanturago or Mosocho,” he told journalists outside his office.
There shall be delegations from the neighbouring counties thronging in into the 30,000 capacity Gusii Stadium.
More hundreds of other party supporters and other local leaders shall also be in attendance.
Mohammed said the party chose Kisii to recognize the unwavering support the region has given over the years.
“Kisii has been central to ODM’s political journey, and it’s only fitting that we return here to celebrate this important milestone,” said Mohamed.
“This event will not only celebrate our achievements but also reflect on the future of the movement.”
The celebrations will feature a series of activities, including a thanksgiving rally, cultural performances, political reflections, and community outreach initiatives.
Local ODM branches across Kisii, Nyamira, and surrounding counties have been tasked with mobilization efforts.
Arati, also ODM party chair pledged full support for the event’s success.
“We are proud to host the ODM family here. This celebration is not just about the party but about the people who have stood for democracy and justice,” said Arati.
ODM officials are expected to use the occasion to highlight the party’s key milestones, including its role in pushing for constitutional reforms, devolution, and electoral justice.
Political analysts also predict that the event could serve as a platform to signal the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.
There are those who view the celebrations as the raging fresh supremacy battles between Presidential aspirant Fred Matiangi, a son from the community, and Arati who lately leans towards the two term Ruto re-election push.
He has however denied backing Ruto saying he was only “milking development for his people”.
On Sarturday, during a church service in Nyamache, Matiangi told Arati to use the ODM fete opportunity to convince Odinga to back him in his quest for presidential.
“If you’re honest go ahead to tell him that as a community we have over the years backed and should now consider returning the favour,” the former CS told Arati who has made two appearances in Statehouse as Ruto moves to cut the influence of Matiangi at home.
On Tuesday, the ODM officials said security arrangements, transport logistics, and accommodation plans are currently being coordinated by a joint organizing committee involving both local and national party structures.
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