Social media in Kenya has become a vibrant space for discussing how to honour the late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga permanently.
Following his death on 15 October 2025, a wave of sentiment has emerged. Many Kenyans are calling for a statue of the political giant to be erected in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).
Musician Leads the Public Conversation
Among the most vocal proponents is popular Kenyan musician Willy Paul (Willy Paul Msafi).
The artist took to social media to suggest two key ways to cement Odinga’s legacy. His proposal included a statue and a designated national day of remembrance.
“Meru Was A Success, Happy Mashujaa Day. We Need A Raila Statue In Nairobi CBD, We Need A Raila Day Aswell. I know President Ruto Will Grant That.”
Willy Paul’s post came as Kenya observed a national day in honour of its heroes. The request directs the call squarely at President William Ruto’s administration.
AI Art Depicts Proposed Memorials
The public outpouring of grief and respect quickly translated into creative action. Numerous social media users shared AI-generated images illustrating what a monument to the former Prime Minister might look like. These pictures vividly captured different aspects of his persona.
One notable image showed a life-sized bronze figure of Odinga seated in a high-backed chair. He was depicted wearing his signature wide-brimmed hat and an African-style outfit.
The statue’s base featured a simple plaque inscribed with his name and the affectionate moniker, “Raila Odinga (Baba).” The pose radiated an air of dignified, relaxed contemplation.
Another popular artistic depiction showed a towering, full-body bronze statue. This one presented the statesman in a business suit and tie, with his right hand raised in a characteristic wave or greeting to the crowds.
The base beneath this figure was engraved with his birth and death years: “RAILA ODINGA 1945–2025.”
The proposed statues capture his essence: the dignified statesman and the popular leader of the people.The Legacy of a ‘Giant of Democracy’
Raila Odinga’s political career spanned over five decades. He was revered as a tireless champion of democracy and social justice.
His impact included being detained for six years under a previous regime for his activism. He also played a crucial role in the push for multiparty democracy in the 1990s and the enactment of the 2010 Constitution.
President William Ruto himself acknowledged this immense contribution, describing Odinga as “a giant of democracy” and “a patriot of uncommon courage.”
The campaign to erect a statue reflects a public desire for a tangible, visible symbol of this legacy in the capital city. Nairobi’s CBD already hosts monuments to other national figures. A statue of the late Tom Mboya stands as a prominent feature, for instance.
The conversation continues across Kenyan social platforms. It brings a focus on how best to honour a man who left an indelible mark on the nation’s history and political landscape.
BY moses sagwe
