Major Nairobi Roads Set for Traffic Delays as ODM Plan Mass Jacaranda Rally

Nairobi motorists and commuters face potential traffic delays on Saturday as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) plans to draw tens of thousands of supporters to Jacaranda Grounds for a massive political gathering.

The rally marks the end of a month-long commemoration, dubbed "Mwezi wa Baba," dedicated to marking the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Party organisers expect over 100,000 delegates and members of the public from across all 85 wards in the capital, alongside political leaders from around the country.

Makadara MP and Nairobi ODM chairman George Aladwa detailed the planned transport routes on Friday, confirming that major road networks across the city will experience heavy delegate traffic.

Delegates traveling from Lang'ata, Dagoretti South, and Westlands will move along Mombasa Road and the Southern Bypass before connecting to Jogoo Road toward Jacaranda Grounds.

Supporters coming from Mathare, Roysambu, Starehe, and Ruaraka are directed to use sections of Thika Road and Outer Ring Road. Host delegations from Embakasi West, Embakasi South, Embakasi Central, Embakasi North, and Kasarani will receive incoming groups at the venue.

Alongside police deployments, ODM has established its own internal security arrangements to manage the large crowds and maintain order throughout the day.

While the event officially closes the mourning period for the party's late founder, leaders also intend to use the platform to outline ODM's future political direction and strategy ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The gathering comes amid ongoing internal debate and discussions regarding a potential written pre-election agreement between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

The party's top leadership structure is currently undergoing transitions and managing health concerns. Party leader Oburu Oginga, who is recovering from an illness, is set to address the crowd virtually from his home.

Aladwa asked supporters to pray for Oburu's quick recovery while acknowledging the support of national chairperson Gladys Wanga, deputy leaders Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, and senior party figures including Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, John Mbadi, and Opiyo Wandayi.

The Makadara lawmaker also expressed appreciation to President William Ruto for supporting the party during the month-long memorial events.

The gathering will remain open to the general public alongside official party delegates, with aspirants seeking various elective positions invited to participate.