20 years on: Diversity, inclusion take center stage as ODM celebrates anniversary

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is today marking its 20^th anniversary with a special focus on diversity and inclusion, bringing together different party leagues for celebrations, dialogue and the launch of key initiatives.

In a statement on Friday, the Party revealed its itinerary, highlighting the various meetings that will take place during the day.

“Today we celebrate our diversity and inclusivity…O! What a day!!!” the party stated.

The Persons with Disabilities League is meeting at Whitesands Hotel, where members are discussing inclusion, accessibility and opportunities within the party and public service.

The forum is also highlighting the role of PWDs in the party’s two decades of political engagement.

At the ASK Grounds, the ODM Women League is holding its celebration, a major event that features the launch of a legacy book capturing the journey, achievements and leadership of women in the party since its founding.

The gathering has brought together senior party officials, veterans and emerging leaders.

“At the Fort Jesus grounds, the Youth League shall deliberate on their issues, followed by a mega Youth Concert,” ODM added.

The discussions are expected to be on issues including political representation, economic empowerment and leadership pathways. 

Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, with other delegations during ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa on November 13, 2025/ODM

The celebrations are part of a wider programme honouring two decades of ODM’s political presence and its commitment to representation across all segments of society. 

The Orange Party will be staging the celebration from November 14 to 16 at the historic Mama Ngina Waterfront.

The milestone event will also honour party founder Raila Odinga, with festivities spread across the coastal city.

President William Ruto and ex-Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala are expected to grace the occasion as founding members.

The celebration is expected to bring together a mix of party loyalists, old guards, and new-generation leaders in what insiders describe as a defining moment for Kenya’s most resilient political movement.

This will be the first major event for the ODM party since the death of its party leader, Raila Odinga, on October 15.

ODM officials say the event will celebrate the party’s contribution to political reforms, devolution and the defence of civil liberties, while also setting the tone for its next chapter ahead of the 2027 elections.

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, who has been officially approved as the party’s leader [awaiting ratification by the National Delegates Convention], described the anniversary as a moment to reflect on the party’s journey and to celebrate the legacy of Raila.

 “As we commemorate this landmark, we do so in honour of the indelible legacy of our departed party leader, the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, the father of modern democracy in Kenya, vision, courage and sacrifice built this movement. Whose vision, courage and sacrifice built this movement,” Oburu said.

ODM delegates during ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa on November 13, 2025/ODM