- President William Ruto announced that the new Talanta Stadium in Nairobi would be named after Raila Odinga after a public appeal from Governor Johnson Sakaja
- The announcement caused a huge cheer at Nyayo Stadium with Ruto saying the facility will honor Raila’s legacy once construction is complete.
- Ruto also praised Raila for dedicating his life to freedom, justice, and national unity, calling him the man who shaped Kenya’s political journey.
- At his request, the crowd held a minute’s silence for the former prime minister, bringing the Nyayo Stadium to a standstill before continuing with his speech.
President William Ruto has announced another plan in an effort to fulfill the legacy of the former prime minister Raila Odinga.
Source: Facebook
Ruto announced that the new Talanta Stadium in Nairobi will be named after the late former prime minister, following a public appeal from the Nairobi governor. Johnson.
During the 62nd Republic Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, December 12, Ruto he confirmed that the stadium would preserve Raila’s legacy.
“We are completing the stadiums of Talanta Stadium in Jamhuri. I have heard what the Governor of Nairobi said about what name Talanta Stadium should be given. You are asking what name it should be given? You said it should be called Raila Amollo Odinga International Stadium. I have heard you, and as soon as we complete the process, we will do just that,” the president announced, causing great cheers from the audience.
Ruto praises Raila’s sacrifices
Earlier in his speech, Ruto used the occasion to celebrate Raila’s lifelong commitment to freedom, justice, and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing the former prime minister’s courage and faith in the power of the people.
Source: Twitter
The President praised the former ODM leader for sacrificing his whole life to ensure a better Kenya for all generations to come.
“Raila dedicated his life to the pursuit of freedom, justice, and peaceful coexistence. His courage, perseverance, and unwavering belief in the power of the people created important chapters of our national story and inspired generations to believe that change is possible,” he said.
At one point, the president asked the crowd to observe a minute’s silence in Raila’s honour, urging Kenyans to remember his sacrifice and lasting legacy.
The stadium, which was being renovated, fell into a deep silence before the president continued his speech.
How did Sakaja want Raila’s legacy to be respected?
As previously reported, Ruto’s announcement follows Governor Sakaja’s call during the celebrations.
Sakaja recognized Raila as one of the city’s most influential leaders, along with the late Tom Mboya, praising their efforts against oppression and dedication to public service.
The governor also urged Kenyans to emulate Raila’s actions, urging the nation to uphold the values of nationalism and patriotism he defended.
To cement Raila’s memory, Sakaja suggested naming the modern stadium along Ngong Road after him, suggesting it host the 2026 Republic Day celebrations.
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