Senator James Orengo has expressed strong approval of President William Ruto’s directive to rename Talanta Stadium in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The announcement was made on Friday during the Jamhuri Day celebrations in Nairobi.
In a statement, Orengo described the move as a “noble gesture” that immortalizes Jakom’s legacy.
“This noble gesture immortalizes Jakom’s legacy of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering dedication to justice, democracy, good governance, inclusivity, and national cohesion,” he said.
Orengo highlighted Raila Odinga’s influence on generations of Kenyans, especially the youth and sportsmen.
“A befitting honour for The Enigma, a towering inspiration to generations of youth, sportsmen, and women across the country,” he added.
The renaming of Talanta Stadium comes as part of broader efforts to commemorate national figures who have contributed significantly to Kenya’s democratic journey.
Raila Odinga, who passed away in October, held the position of Prime Minister and was a long-standing opposition leader, known for his advocacy of multiparty democracy and governance reforms.
During the Jamhuri Day celebrations, President Ruto emphasized that the renaming was intended to preserve the memory of leaders who dedicated their lives to national service.
The stadium, located in Nairobi, will now carry the name of the late politician, creating a symbolic site for sports and public gatherings.
The announcement has drawn reactions from political leaders and citizens alike, with many welcoming the move as a gesture of unity and recognition of Raila’s contributions.
Orengo’s endorsement reinforces the significance of the decision within the political landscape, highlighting the impact of Raila’s legacy on contemporary Kenyan society.
President Ruto’s directive is expected to be implemented in the coming weeks, with formal plans for renaming and unveiling to be announced by the relevant authorities