NAIROBI — President William Ruto has directed that the Sh45 billion (approx. $321 million) Talanta Sports City be renamed the Raila Odinga International Stadium, a defining gesture of reconciliation announced during yesterday’s Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium.

The decision, coming barely two months after the former Prime Minister’s passing in October, marks a significant pivot in Ruto’s administration—moving from historical political rivalry to cementing the legacy of Kenya’s "Enigma." It signals a deepening of the national unity pact that has defined the political landscape since the formation of the broad-based government.

The Jamhuri Day Decree

The atmosphere at Nyayo Stadium shifted palpably when Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja took to the podium. In an unscripted appeal that electrified the thousands in attendance, Sakaja turned to the Head of State with a request that resonated across the political divide.

“We know that next year, Jamhuri celebrations will be held at the new Talanta Stadium,” Sakaja implored. “We ask that you rename that stadium after Raila Odinga in honour of the departed leader who just left us.”

President Ruto’s response was immediate and affirmative, triggering thunderous applause. “I have heard you,” Ruto declared, deviating from his prepared remarks. “You have said that we should rename it to Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium... as soon as we are done, we will do that.”

ODM’s ‘Warm Welcome’

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), now led by a transitional council following Odinga’s death, termed the move a "historic gesture." Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, who had first floated the idea during Odinga’s burial in Bondo, issued a statement praising the President’s responsiveness.

“This honour reflects the deep respect Kenyans have for Raila and his lifelong dedication to our nation,” Wanga noted. She emphasized that the renaming is not merely cosmetic but a symbolic recognition of Odinga’s struggle for the very democratic space that allows such bipartisan harmony to exist today.

• The Request: Initiated by Governor Sakaja and supported by ODM leadership.
• The Timeline: Renaming to take effect upon the facility's completion in early 2026.
• The Legacy: Honors Odinga's role in the 'Second Liberation' and his passion for football.

A Monument of Unity

The facility itself, situated along Ngong Road, is currently 70% complete. Designed to be the crown jewel of Kenya’s sporting infrastructure, the 60,000-seater stadium is slated to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.

For the ordinary Kenyan, the renaming transcends politics. It attaches a name synonymous with resilience to a project meant to showcase Kenyan talent to the world. Analysts suggest that by linking Odinga’s name to a flagship project of his own administration, President Ruto is effectively de-politicizing the stadium, ensuring it stands as a monument to national cohesion rather than partisan achievement.

“When the gates open in 2026, it will not just be a stadium,” remarked political analyst Herman Manyora. “It will be a physical testament that in the end, we are one nation, under one flag, honoring one of our greatest sons.”