The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) concluded its 20th anniversary celebrations on Sunday, November 16, 2025, with a message of unity and gratitude, marking two decades since its formation and paying tribute to its late founder, Raila Odinga.

The three-day festivities in Mombasa, held from November 14–16, wrapped up with a founders’ dinner attended by party leaders, supporters, and President William Ruto. In a post on X shared on Monday, November 17, 2025, the party stated, “This is how we wound up the ODM at 20 celebrations. Thank you Kenya. Thank you the people of ODM… we simply say #AsanteBaba,” capturing appreciation for supporters and Kenya at large.

Founders’ dinner marks milestone moment

ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga described the dinner as an important moment to reflect on the party’s legacy.

In a statement posted on X on Sunday, November 16, 2025, she said, “The ODM Founders’ Dinner provided us with an essential opportunity to reflect on the rich history and impactful journey of our nation’s largest political party.”

She added, “We stand in admiration of those who, under the leadership of Baba, united to establish a powerful ideological movement that has consistently led the charge in advocating for the people’s interests.” Addressing supporters as “Wanachungwa,” Wanga noted, “It’s for you, Wanachungwa!”

Nominated Senator Crystal Asige, who received the ODM Distinguished Service Award, expressed gratitude for the recognition of her contributions.

She wrote, “A ‘Distinguished Service Award (Gold)’ for my contribution to the ODM. I acknowledge and appreciate those who were there when it started, especially our founding father, but I also salute the solid ones who stayed steadfast for 20 years, as well as those of us charged to carry it forward for the next 20.”

She added, “…Thank you, Baba, for leaving me with this gift that I will remember always.”

Oburu Odinga highlights party’s journey

ODM Party Leader Oburu Odinga said the founders’ dinner offered a reminder of the party’s enduring resilience. In a statement on X on Sunday, November 16, 2025, he wrote, “The ODM Founders Dinner gathered party pioneers, long-time supporters, and guests for an evening dedicated to reflection, unity, and renewed purpose.”

He thanked President Ruto for attending, saying, “A special thank you to His Excellency William Ruto for joining us for these celebrations.” Oburu noted that the event brought together individuals who have shaped the party’s identity from its inception to the present.