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Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has proposed that the Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County be renamed in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga.
Kalonzo made the call on Thursday while visiting Opoda Farm in Bondo, where he joined family members and leaders to pay tribute to Raila’s legacy.
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He urged the Kitui County Assembly to fast-track a motion to officially rename the newly renovated facility Raila Amollo Odinga Stadium, saying it would be a meaningful way to celebrate Raila’s contributions to national unity, democracy, and sports development.
“I want the County Assembly of Kitui to move quickly and rename the newly renovated Ithookwe Stadium after Raila Amollo Odinga,” Kalonzo said, adding that naming public institutions after him would ensure his legacy lives on for generations.
The Wiper leader highlighted Raila’s passion for sports, particularly football, recalling how the two shared a love for Arsenal FC and enjoyed lively football discussions.
In a lighthearted remark, Kalonzo said, “I was a better footballer than Raila, but he was the better commentator — and both of us were Arsenal fans.”
Kalonzo also backed a proposal earlier made by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga to rename Nairobi’s upcoming Talanta Stadium after Raila, saying such initiatives reflect the nation’s collective gratitude for his decades of leadership and dedication to inclusivity.
“I support Governor Wanga’s idea to name Talanta Stadium after Raila. It’s a fitting tribute,” he said.
His sentiments were echoed by several other leaders, including Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, who have supported calls to commemorate Raila through public landmarks and national programmes.
If approved, the renaming of Ithookwe Stadium would be among the most significant tributes to Raila Odinga in Kenya’s Eastern region, where Kalonzo commands strong political influence.
Kalonzo’s remarks came shortly after he made a traditional gesture of honour by delivering about 100 cattle to Raila’s Opoda Farm — a grand expression of respect for his longtime ally.
READ ALSO: Kalonzo Storms Bondo With 100 Cattle To Honour Raila
