A proposal to erect a statue in honour of the late Raila Amolo Odinga in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) has been formally submitted to President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja for approval.
The initiative championed by former Parklands/Highridge MCA Jayendra Malde in collaboration with Kenya’s Indian community seeks to commemorate Raila Odinga’s lifelong dedication to democracy, unity, and good governance.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 27, 2025, Malde confirmed that official letters requesting approval and guidance on the next steps had been delivered to both leaders.
“Today, October 27, 2025, as promised, we have submitted the letters of approval to President William Ruto and Governor Johnson Sakaja. We will await their response, and once approved, we will move with speed to make it happen,” Malde said.
Honouring Raila’s Legacy of Democracy and National Unity
In the letter addressed to Governor Sakaja, the group described Raila Odinga as a patriotic leader, statesman, and defender of democracy whose vision and sacrifices profoundly shaped Kenya’s political landscape.
The letter highlighted Odinga’s key contributions, including his role in championing multiparty democracy, advocating for the 2010 Constitution, promoting national reconciliation through the Handshake Initiative, and advancing equality and inclusion across Kenya’s diverse communities.
“The late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga was a patriotic leader, statesman, and champion of democracy who dedicated his life to advancing Kenya’s freedom, unity, and good governance,” the proposal read.
According to the proponents, the monument aims to stand as a national symbol of patriotism, democracy, and unity a lasting reminder of Raila Odinga’s legacy for present and future generations.
Indian Community Pledges Full Support and Funding
The Indian community has also requested that the government allocate a suitable site within the Nairobi CBD, ideally one of national significance and easy public access. The group pledged that the project will be fully funded by community members and implemented in full compliance with technical, cultural, and safety standards established by Nairobi City County and the National Museums of Kenya.
“We kindly request approval and allocation of a suitable site within the Nairobi CBD,” the letter stated. “We also seek official endorsement from the Government of Kenya, recognising the monument as a symbol of democracy, unity, and national remembrance.”
Expressing optimism about a positive outcome, the organisers said the project seeks to celebrate Raila Odinga’s enduring impact on Kenya’s democracy and honour his resilience, vision, and commitment to a better nation.
“This is our collective tribute to a man who inspired generations and helped shape the democratic journey of our country,” Malde added.
