A proposed statue of late Raila Odinga/COURTESYA section of the Asian community in Kenya has formally appealed to the Nairobi city county to grant approval for the construction of a statue in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga
Led by former Parklands MCA Jayendra Malde, the community stated that the monument would serve as a national symbol of democracy, unity, and patriotism, virtues that the late Raila championed throughout his long political career.
In their proposal to the State House and City Hall, the group outlined plans for a life-size statue depicting Raila in a grey suit and red-and-white striped tie, with his right hand raised in his trademark salute.
They have also appealed to designers to share their ideas to be adopted once the approval is granted.
The monument, they say, will be positioned at a prominent public site within the CBD, accessible to all Kenyans.
“The late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga was a patriotic leader, statesman, and champion of democracy who dedicated his life to advancing Kenya's freedom, unity, and good governance,” reads part of the letter submitted by Malde to Governor Johnson Sakaja.
“We humbly seek your support and permission to erect a statue in his honour as a gesture of gratitude and respect.”
The proposal highlights Raila’s lifelong contribution to the country, from his fight for multiparty democracy during periods of political repression, to his role in pushing for the 2010 Constitution that entrenched devolution and citizen representation.
It also cites his efforts in promoting peace and national reconciliation, notably through the 2018 Handshake initiative.
According to Malde, the project will be fully funded by members of the Asian community, with all works adhering to technical, cultural, and safety standards prescribed by the Nairobi City County and the National Museums of Kenya.
Upon completion, the statue will be handed over to the government for management and preservation as a national heritage site.
“We will improve on the design once we get approvals from the relevant bodies,” Malde said in a social media post.
“Hon. Sakaja Johnson, President William Ruto, please provide us with the relevant approvals. Thanks in advance.”
If approved, the proposed statue would be one of the first in the capital dedicated to a political figure of the democratic era, marking what the community calls “a timeless tribute to a man who inspired generations through resilience, sacrifice, and vision for a better Kenya.
Raila passed away on October 15 in India.
