Indian community submits plan for Raila’s statue in Nairobi CBD to Ruto, Sakaja
Plans to erect a statue of the late Raila Odinga in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) have officially been submitted to President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja for approval.
The initiative, led by the former Parklands Highridge Member of County Assembly (MCA) Jayendra Malde and the Indian community at large, seeks to honour Raila’s lifelong contribution to democracy, unity, and good governance in Kenya.
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On Monday, October 27, 2025, a formal letter requesting approval was delivered to both the President and the Governor, outlining the proposal and requesting guidance on the next steps.
“Today, October 27, 2025, as promised, we have submitted the letters of approval to President William Ruto and the Governor of Nairobi, Sakaja Johnson,” Malde wrote.
“We will wait for their approval, and once approved, we will move with speed to get it done,” he added.
A tribute to Raila’s legacy of democracy and unity
In the letter addressed to Governor Sakaja, the group described Raila Odinga as a patriotic leader, statesman, and champion of democracy whose sacrifices and leadership left a lasting mark on Kenya’s political history. The letter highlighted Raila’s role in fighting for multiparty democracy, advocating for the 2010 Constitution, promoting national unity through the Handshake Initiative, and pushing for equality and inclusion across communities.
“The late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga was a patriotic leader, statesman, and champion of democracy who dedicated his life to advancing Kenya’s freedom, unity, and good governance,” the letter stated.
It added that the proposed monument aims to serve as a symbol of patriotism, democracy, and unity for current and future generations.
The Indian community also requested that the government allocate a suitable site within the CBD for the statue, preferably one of national significance and easy public access. The letter assured authorities that the project would be fully funded by the members and that all works would comply with technical, cultural, and safety standards set by Nairobi City County and the National Museums of Kenya.
“We kindly request approval and allocation of a suitable site within the Nairobi CBD,” the letter read. “We also seek official endorsement from the Government of Kenya recognising the monument as a symbol of democracy, unity, and national remembrance.”
The group expressed optimism that the approvals would be granted soon, saying the initiative seeks to celebrate a man whose resilience and vision for a better Kenya inspired generations.
