The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has spoken out following the President William Ruto’s directive to rename Talanta Stadium to honor Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a statement issued on December 12th, 2025, ODM welcomed and appreciated the move of the President.

Ruto made a public announcement to rename Talanta Stadium during Jamhuri Celebrations at Nyayo Stadium on December 12th.

“The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) warmly welcomes and appreciates the announcement made today by H.E. President William Samoei Ruto during the Jamhuri Day celebrations, directing that Talanta Stadium be renamed Raila Amolo Odinga Stadium in honour of our departed Party Leader and former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, CGH,” read part notice.

Raila Odinga Legacy

The party’s national chairperson, Gladys Wanga, said they appealed to Ruto during the burial ceremony of the late Raila as a lasting way to honor Raila’s legacy.

She also noted that Raila Odinga was a man whose life was defined by sacrifice, courage, and unyielding commitment to justice, democracy, and unity.

“This gesture follows a humble and heartfelt appeal we made during the burial ceremony of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga in Bondo, where we requested that the nation find a lasting way to honour the legacy of a man whose life was defined by sacrifice, courage, and an unyielding commitment to justice, democracy, and the unity of our nation,” said Wanga.

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ODM Welcomes Move

According to Wanga, Ruto exercised the spirit of patriotism and national cohesion by accepting their request.

The Chairperson said this move is a symbolic action in recognizing the monumental contribution Raila made to expanding democratic space, safeguarding constitutionalism, and championing the rights and dignity of all Kenyans.

“As ODM, we acknowledge this honour with deep gratitude. We view it as a national step towards healing, unity, and mutual respect, values that the late Rt. Hon. Odinga lived and fought for throughout his life,” read part notice.

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ODM Promise to the Country

The party assured Kenyans that they will continue to uphold the ideals Raila stood for, including a more inclusive, just, and prosperous Kenya where leadership is defined by service, integrity, and a relentless quest for a better tomorrow.

Additionally, Wanga said this gesture will inspire the country to rise above partisanship and embrace unity as the true foundation of national progress.

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ODM issues a public notice to welcome the move to rename Talanta Stadium to honor Raila Odinga. PHOTO/Wanga X