ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa turned into a strong defence of the party’s history, with Suna East MP Junet Mohammed saying the movement has stood firm longer than any other political formation in Kenya.
He told supporters that ODM’s survival through two decades of political changes shows its strength, discipline and ability to remain a national voice.
Taking the stage before party leaders, members of the Odinga family and supporters from across the country in Mombasa on Saturday, Junet said the gathering was bigger than a simple anniversary, describing it as a moment that reminded Kenyans of the party’s long journey.
He said the milestone shows that ODM has managed to keep its systems and character even as many parties formed around election cycles faded soon after.
“These celebrations are very big,” he said as he addressed the crowd. “There’s no other party that has celebrated 20 years. It is only ODM. So my plea is that we give ODM the respect it deserves — and its founder, Baba. We must celebrate him and the party he built.”
Junet praised Raila Odinga’s leadership, saying the presence of Raila Junior, Winnie Odinga, Ruth Odinga and Oburu Oginga highlighted the long line of people who have carried the party’s message over the years. He said their appearance was a reminder that ODM’s story cannot be separated from Raila’s role in building a movement that has shaped national debate for two decades.
“We have come here to celebrate our party for 20 years and to celebrate the life of Baba Raila Odinga,” he said, firmly linking the party’s growth to its long-time leader.
He also revealed that the event had been expected to take place from October 10–13, 2025, but the plan was changed when Raila travelled and could not attend. Junet said the team behind the celebrations agreed that the anniversary could not go ahead without him.
“We had to postpone to November 14 so that we can celebrate his life and our party together,” he explained.
Junet added that ODM’s consistency has allowed it to influence key national issues, build a strong presence on the ground and prepare for each election cycle with proper organisation.
He said these qualities have kept the party ahead of many others that come together quickly and disappear after polling day.
He ended by thanking the organisers, saying their dedication showed the strength that continues to push ODM forward.
Junet called on supporters to remain loyal, noting that reaching twenty years is a major moment for any political group and strengthens ODM’s place among Africa’s longest-standing parties.
