Nairobi, Kenya – October 24, 2025 – Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has sparked a national debate after calling on President William Ruto to rename the newly built Talanta Stadium in honor of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
In a passionate statement shared on his official X account, Senator Cherargei said that naming the iconic sports facility after Raila would be a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy as a champion of democracy, devolution, and human rights in Kenya.
“Even as the national mourning period of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga comes to an end, we should name Talanta Stadium as Raila Odinga Talanta Stadium in honour of his celebrated legacy of democracy, rule of law, human rights, devolution, and his love for sports,” Cherargei posted.
The senator praised Raila’s immense contribution to Kenya’s political transformation, describing him as a leader whose vision helped shape the modern democratic landscape. He further noted that Raila’s passion for sports and youth empowerment made the proposal not just symbolic but deeply meaningful for generations to come.
A Call for Unity Through Sports
Cherargei’s proposal comes as the country continues to reflect on Raila’s profound impact following weeks of national mourning. Many Kenyans have celebrated the late ODM leader as a tireless reformist who sacrificed personal ambition for national progress.
“Raila Odinga believed in unity, resilience, and fairness — values that resonate strongly with the spirit of sports,” Cherargei added. “This would be a unifying gesture that cements his legacy and motivates our youth to pursue excellence.”
The suggestion to name the state-of-the-art facility after Raila has drawn mixed reactions online. Supporters have hailed it as a moment of reconciliation and respect that transcends political divides, while critics argue that stadiums should remain apolitical and reflect collective national achievements instead.
Ruto’s Sports Vision and AFCON 2027 Preparations
Cherargei also lauded President William Ruto’s administration for its investments in sports infrastructure, noting that the modernization of facilities like Talanta Stadium has placed Kenya on the path toward hosting major international tournaments.
“The future of sports, especially for our youth, looks secured under President Ruto’s administration because of the modernization of sports facilities across the country. Well done, President Ruto — we are now almost ready for AFCON 2027,” he stated.
The Talanta Stadium, one of Kenya’s flagship sports projects, is part of the government’s broader effort to position the country as a premier sports hub in Africa. The facility, set to host major football and athletics events, is a cornerstone of Kenya’s joint bid with Uganda and Tanzania to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
National Debate Looms
If adopted, the renaming of Talanta Stadium to “Raila Odinga Talanta Stadium” would mark one of the most significant posthumous honors bestowed upon a Kenyan political figure. The proposal also symbolizes a potential thaw in political tensions between leaders from different sides of the political spectrum.
As the government wraps up official mourning activities for the late Raila Odinga, Kenyans are watching closely to see whether President Ruto will embrace the senator’s suggestion — a move that could signal unity in honoring one of Kenya’s most transformative leaders.
