During the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo National Stadium, a significant political request was made to President William Ruto.
The Nairobi Governor, Johnson Sakaja, publicly asked the President to rename the currently under-construction Talanta Stadium.
Sakaja requested that the facility be officially named the Raila Odinga International Stadium.
The appeal was made in honour of the late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga. Odinga passed away in October 2025.
A Request from Nairobians
Speaking to the massive crowd at the national fête, Governor Sakaja presented the petition as a request from the people of Nairobi. The proposal aims to permanently honour the legacy of the late political figure.
The Governor's remarks, delivered in Swahili, were clear and direct.
ALSO READ: Raila Odinga: The Enduring Legacy of Kenya’s Political Icon
"We ask our beloved President William Samoei Arap Ruto... and as people of Nairobi, we ask you to name it Raila Odinga International Stadium."
The request was met with cheers and applause from a segment of the audience. Naming public infrastructure after prominent national leaders is a common practice in Kenya.
Future Celebrations at the New Arena
In addition to the renaming request, Governor Sakaja made a second major proposal concerning the stadium. He asked President Ruto to consider hosting the next national celebration at the new facility.
Specifically, Sakaja requested that the 63rd Jamhuri Day celebrations in 2026 be held at Talanta Stadium. This would serve as a major unveiling for the new facility, demonstrating its completion and readiness.
"We ask that next year this celebration should take place in Talanta Stadium."
Holding a national holiday at the stadium would confirm its status as a premier venue for large public gatherings.
Background on the Stadium
Talanta Stadium is a major government project. It is currently under construction in Nairobi. The facility is being built with the intention of becoming a world-class venue for sports and large events.
The construction is part of a broader government effort. This effort aims to upgrade Kenya's sporting infrastructure. The goal is often linked to bidding for or hosting major continental and international tournaments.
The President is yet to issue a formal response to the proposal made by Governor Sakaja. The request now places the decision regarding the stadium's name and its 2026 hosting schedule directly before the Head of State.
Previously, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga formally appealed to President William Ruto to rename the 60,000-seater facility as a tribute to Odinga's significant contributions to the nation and sports development.
She also suggested hosting a memorial football match between Odinga's favorite club, Arsenal, and the Kenyan national team, Harambee Stars.
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!