A section of the ODM leaders pose for a photo during a meeting in Mombasa on September 13, 2025. /XODM has declared that its upcoming 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa will mark a powerful rebirth for the party as it positions itself for the 2027 general election.
The celebrations, slated for October 10 to 12, will bring together ODM leaders, members and supporters in the coastal city, which has long been regarded as one of the party’s strongholds.
National Assembly minority leader Junet Mohamed, who is among the leaders spearheading preparations, expressed gratitude to Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir for hosting the landmark event.
“I want to thank the governor of Mombasa, His Excellency Abdulswamad Sharrif, for agreeing to host the 20th celebration of the Orange Democratic Party in Mombasa. As you know, this county has been ODM territory since its formation in 2013," he said.
"This occasion reminds us where we came from, where we are, and where we want to go. It is a rebirth of our party and an inspiration as we look to 2027."
Governor Nassir echoed the sentiment, describing the anniversary as both a political and national moment.
“The largest and most popular party is celebrating 20 years of resilience. Mombasa is honored to host this historic occasion. These celebrations are not just about the life of a political party, but about the values and aspirations of Kenyans,” he said.
The Orange Democratic Movement was formed in 2005 after Kenya’s constitutional referendum, when the “No” campaign—symbolised by the orange—united various political leaders against proposed constitutional changes.
It was later registered as a political party in 2006, consolidating this coalition into a formal outfit under Raila Odinga’s leadership.
ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna said that reaching two decades was no mean feat, praising the party leader’s vision and urging members to embrace the moment.
“To birth a party and keep it alive for 20 years is not easy. As our leader has directed us, hatutaki maneno mingi, this celebration is just that, a celebration from start to finish,” Sifuna remarked.
The three-day event will feature a Youth Summit, bringing together young leaders to discuss their role in shaping Kenya’s future, and a Women Convention to highlight the contribution of women in the struggle for democracy and inclusivity.
A vibrant youth concert is also planned, showcasing music and creative performances to celebrate the Orange spirit.
Sports will also play a key role in the festivities, with a four-team football tournament featuring AFC Leopards, Bandari FC, Gor Mahia, and Shabana FC.
The tournament is expected to symbolise unity and camaraderie through sport.
In the build-up to the main event in Mombasa, ODM will hold activities across the country, with Migori and Wajir counties hosting some of the major highlights, underscoring the party’s commitment to inclusivity and grassroots engagement.
The leaders spoke after a planning meeting in Mombasa, where they affirmed that the anniversary would not only celebrate ODM’s past but also energize its basefor the battles ahead.
