Photos of Proposed Raila Odinga Monument in Nairobi CBD Emerge
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially backed a proposal to honour veteran opposition leader Raila Amollo Odinga by constructing a monument in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).
In a statement released on Friday, June 26, the party welcomed a motion introduced in the Nairobi County Assembly by Nairobi West MCA Rex Omolleh.
The motion seeks to recognise Raila Odinga for the important role he has played in advancing democracy, promoting constitutional reforms, strengthening governance, and supporting major infrastructure development in Kenya over several decades.
ODM described the proposal as a deserving tribute to one of the country’s most influential political figures.
The party urged Kenyans to support the initiative, saying Kenya has a long history of recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions to national development and public service.
According to the party, the country has, over the years, honoured distinguished citizens in different ways, including awarding national medals, conferring official titles, naming roads after them, and erecting public monuments.
ODM noted that such recognitions have been carried out by both the national government and the former municipal councils, whose responsibilities are now handled by county governments.
The proposal initially suggested that the monument be built at a strategic location inside Uhuru Park.
However, ODM has since proposed an amendment to the motion, recommending that the monument instead be erected at the Supreme Court roundabout in Nairobi.
The new location is considered more symbolic because of Raila Odinga’s long history of political struggles and legal battles that have shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
His numerous court cases, constitutional campaigns, and efforts to push for electoral justice have made the Supreme Court a place closely associated with his political legacy.
Artistic impressions of the proposed monument, which have now emerged online, show a large copper-themed sculpture of Raila Odinga standing on an elevated platform outside the Supreme Court of Kenya.
The design presents him in a commanding posture, reflecting his decades-long involvement in Kenya’s political landscape and democratic reforms.
Newshub.co.ke has also established that the monument would feature the inscription “Raila Odinga” together with the years “1945–2025.”
According to supporters of the proposal, these dates are intended to symbolise his lifetime contribution to the country’s political transformation, democratic progress, and governance reforms.
The monument’s design also includes the words “A Tribute to Democracy,” highlighting the role Raila has played in the fight for constitutionalism, justice, and democratic freedoms.
It will also feature one of his well-known quotes: “It is the people who must make their own decisions about their future.”
Supporters believe the quotation reflects his long-standing belief in the power of citizens to determine the country’s political direction through democratic processes.
The overall design appears carefully crafted to portray Raila Odinga not only as a veteran politician but also as one of Kenya’s enduring symbols of the struggle for democracy.
The decision to place the monument near the Supreme Court further reinforces themes of justice, the rule of law, constitutional order, and the country’s democratic evolution.
ODM further stated that Raila has dedicated much of his adult life to advocating for greater democratic space, respect for human rights, accountable leadership, good governance, and economic transformation.
The party pointed out that his political journey has not been without sacrifice, noting that he spent close to a decade in detention without trial during the struggle for multi-party democracy.
The party also argued that locating the monument near the Supreme Court would better capture Raila Odinga’s place in Kenya’s democratic history.
According to ODM, the site would serve as a lasting reminder of his influence on the country’s constitutional reforms, electoral justice, and broader political development, ensuring that future generations remember his contribution to shaping modern Kenya.
Join TUKO KADI Official WhatsApp Channel to stay updated on time
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
