The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has thrown its weight behind a proposal seeking to immortalise veteran opposition leader Raila Amollo Odinga through the establishment of a monument in Nairobi’s Central Business District.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

In a statement on Friday, June 26, the party expressed support for a motion tabled in the Nairobi County Assembly by Nairobi West MCA Rex Omolleh seeking to honour Raila for his contribution to Kenya’s democratic growth, governance reforms, and infrastructure development.

ODM described the proposal as a welcome move that deserves support from Kenyans, arguing that the country has a long-standing tradition of recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to national development and public service.

According to the party, Kenya has historically honoured outstanding citizens through medals, titles, road naming and public monuments, both under the national government and former municipal councils, which are now county governments.

📌 What You Need to Know

Initially, the motion had proposed the establishment of the monument at a strategic location within Uhuru Park. However, ODM has now proposed an amendment seeking to have the monument erected at the Supreme Court roundabout instead.

According to the proposed design shared alongside the motion, the monument is to be located outside the Supreme Court of Kenya, a symbolism that could reflect Raila Odinga’s long political and legal battles tied to democracy, constitutionalism, and electoral justice in the country.

Kenyans.co.ke also learnt that the structure, which appears copper-themed based on the artistic impression presented, features a large sculpted figure of him mounted on a raised platform.

Beneath the monument is the inscription “Raila Odinga” accompanied by the years "1945-2025", marking what supporters describe as his lifetime contribution to Kenya’s political and democratic development.

The proposed monument also carries the words “A Tribute to Democracy” together with one of Raila Odinga’s most recognised quotes: “It is the people who must make their own decisions about their future.”

The design appears intended to portray Raila not only as a political figure but also as a symbol of the country’s democratic struggle, with the choice of the Supreme Court-inspired structure likely meant to reinforce themes of justice, constitutional order, and the rule of law.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke