Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Kaluma has called for all roads and bypasses around Nairobi to be named after former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a statement shared on July 1 through his official X platform, Kaluma argued that Raila deserves such recognition due to his contribution to the development of road infrastructure during his tenure as Minister for Roads and Public Works between 2003 and 2005. He recalled that during this period, Raila encountered significant opposition, including legal challenges from individuals resisting the demolition of structures built on road reserves.

Despite these challenges, Raila remained committed to the task, and his efforts led to the establishment of major roads and bypasses that continue to serve Nairobi residents and the country at large.

Kaluma believes that in appreciation of these achievements, the roads and bypasses in and around Nairobi should bear Raila Odinga’s name as a form of lasting recognition.

“All bypasses in Nairobi should be named Raila Odinga Highway. Against stiff opposition from some people, including by filing cases to stop the works on the ground that he was demolishing their properties and businesses along the bypasses, Baba remained focused and built all the bypasses we now enjoy! We must give Baba his due credit and honour,” Kaluma said.

All bypasses in Nairobi should be named Raila Odinga Highway.
Against stiff opposition from some people, including by filling cases to stop the works on the ground that he was demolishing their properties and businesses along the bypasses, Baba remained focused and built all the…

— Hon. George Peter Kaluma, CBS. MP. (Commentaries) (@gpdkaluma) July 1, 2025

Thika Superhighway

This comes a day after Kaluma proposed renaming the Thika Superhighway to Raila Odinga Highway, citing Odinga’s pivotal role in its conception and completion during his tenure as Prime Minister.

Kaluma highlighted Odinga’s resilience in the face of fierce opposition, including legal challenges from landowners, to ensure the project’s success.

The 50-kilometre, eight-lane highway, completed in 2012, transformed commuting between Nairobi and Thika. The proposal has sparked mixed reactions; some praised Odinga’s contribution, while others, including allies of Rigathi Gachagua, argued that the road should honour Mwai Kibaki or retain its current name, fuelling political debate.

“Against stiff opposition from the people, including by filing cases to stop the works on the ground that he was demolishing their properties and businesses alongside the road, Baba remained focused and built Thika Highway! Kaluma proposed. We must give Baba his due,” Kaluma stated.