Orange Democratic Movement chairperson Gladys Wanga has called on President William Ruto to immortalise the late Raila Odinga by renaming the Talanta Stadium after him and inviting English Premier League side Arsenal to play in Kenya.
Speaking during the funeral service at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Siaya County, Wanga said such a gesture would be a fitting tribute to the former prime minister, whose influence extended far beyond politics.
“President William Ruto, allow me to thank you on behalf of the ODM party for the honour and dignity you have accorded our father and patron,” she said.
“Your Excellency, we ask for one final honour as we lay Baba to rest: that upon its completion, the Talanta Sports Stadium be renamed the Raila Odinga Talanta Stadium, and that Arsenal be invited to play Harambee Stars in his honour during the Raila Odinga Memorial Cup next year.”
Raila Odinga, who died earlier this month, was not only a towering political figure but also an ardent football enthusiast. His passion for the sport was reflected in his decades-long support for Gor Mahia and the Harambee Stars. As Gor Mahia’s patron, he provided both financial and moral support, including a Sh10 million pledge for the 2025–2026 season and cash rewards for players during the CAF Champions League.
Beyond local football, Raila was a devoted Arsenal fan, a loyalty he often traced back to the leadership of Arsène Wenger. He credited football with shaping his outlook on teamwork, resilience and fair play—principles that also defined his political journey.
Wanga concluded her tribute by urging ODM members and Kenyans to preserve Raila’s spirit of unity and inclusivity. “Baba was our true north,” she said. “We must always ask ourselves, what would Baba do faced with division or unity, hate or love, exclusion or inclusion, hope or despair?”
