Kisumu Governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o has welcomed President William Ruto’s decision to rename the Talanta Stadium in honour of the late Raila Amolo Odinga, calling it a historic and fitting tribute to one of Kenya’s most influential leaders.

In a press statement issued on Friday, December 12, 2025, Nyong’o said the move to rename the 60,000-seat facility as Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium recognises Raila’s long struggle for democracy, justice and constitutional reform. He spoke on behalf of the people of Kisumu and the wider Lake Region Economic Bloc.

Nyong’o thanked President Ruto for approving the change, saying it showed national leadership and respect for Kenya’s heroes beyond party lines. He said Raila’s role in the Second Liberation, the push for the 2010 Constitution and his strong defence of devolution helped shape modern Kenya and deserved permanent national recognition.

“This decision is a historical act and a deeply fitting tribute to a leader whose life was dedicated to the fight for democracy, justice, and the soul of Kenya. The Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga’s struggle for the Second Liberation, the 2010 Constitution, and his lifelong advocacy for devolution are foundational pillars of modern Kenya,” Nyong’o said.

“Naming a major national asset—a 60,000-seater stadium—in his honour ensures that his story, sacrifice, and values are immortalized into the consciousness of every future generation of Kenyans.A stadium is a place of aspiration, unity, and national pride.’

“By attaching the name of ‘Baba’ to this colossal structure, we are sending a powerful message that the spirit of struggle for human rights and political tolerance are central to the Kenyan identity.”

The Kisumu governor added that the stadium would stand not only as a sports venue but also as a reminder of Raila’s values. He said future generations of athletes and artists would draw inspiration from a leader who, in his view, always put the country first.

Ruto heeds nationwide calls

President Ruto announced the decision on Friday, December 12, 2025, after Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja appealed to him during Jamhuri Day celebrations. Ruto said he had listened to calls from leaders and Kenyans across the political divide and confirmed that the renaming would take effect once construction is complete.

“Nimewasikiza,” the President said, adding that the stadium would officially take Raila Odinga’s name after completion.

Talanta Stadium, located along Ngong Road, is more than 50 per cent complete and is expected to be finished in 2026. The modern facility forms part of Kenya’s preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Uganda and Tanzania. The project is one of the flagship sports investments under President Ruto’s administration.

Support for the renaming has grown in recent months. Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga praised the President for honouring Raila’s legacy, recalling that she made a similar appeal during Raila’s burial in Bondo in October 2025. Leaders including Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma have also backed the move.

Nyong’o urged Kenyans to accept the decision in a spirit of unity, saying the gesture should rise above day-to-day politics. He said the renaming would outlive political debates and remain part of Kenya’s history.

The late Raila Odinga, who died in October 2025 while in India, remains a central figure in Kenya’s political journey.