ODM party leader Oburu Odinga./HANDOUT
Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has revealed that his original vision for the proposed Raila Amolo Odinga Mausoleum was far more modest, but younger members of the project team convinced him to embrace a modern design.
Speaking during the unveiling of the mausoleum's design on Monday, Oburu said he had initially preferred a simpler concept before being persuaded that it was outdated.
"I had thought of making a simpler design at the beginning, and then I was told by these young men that they want to make it so modern that my ideas are archaic," Oburu said.
Even after accepting the revised proposal, the senator questioned whether the current design had gone far enough in embracing modern technology.
He pointed to the John F. Kennedy Museum and Mausoleum in the United States as an example of how interactive displays, recorded speeches and historical archives can be used to preserve the legacy of national leaders.
Responding to Oburu's concerns, project architect Malaki said the unveiled mausoleum represents only the first phase of a much larger memorial project.
"Raila was big, and Raila cannot be boxed into a space of 140 square metres," the architect said.
He explained that the mausoleum is intended to serve as a solemn place where visitors can pay their respects, while a separate Raila Amolo Odinga Centre planned for the second phase will house a fully fledged museum.
According to the architect, the museum will feature modern digital technology, interactive exhibitions and physical displays documenting Raila Odinga's political journey, leadership and contribution to the country.
He added that although the mausoleum's interior designs are yet to be finalised, the structure will incorporate modern finishes and sustainable building materials once construction begins.
Project officials also announced that the mausoleum is expected to be completed within the next two months.
They said the construction team will work closely with the Ministry of Defence and use rapid-strength concrete technology to speed up construction while maintaining quality standards.
The mausoleum forms part of a larger memorial complex that will be developed in phases to honour the legacy of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga.
