Winnie Odinga hails Raila after receiving Kenya’s highest honour
Winnie Odinga has expressed pride and emotion after her late father, Raila Amolo Odinga, was posthumously conferred Kenya’s highest civilian honour, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.).
The recognition was announced during the Mashujaa Day celebrations held at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County on Monday, October 20, 2025. In her message, Winnie wrote: “Winnie Odinga: First Class – Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.). Dated the 20th October, 2025. I’m so very proud of you, Dad.”
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Her words came shortly after President William Ruto honoured the late ODM leader for his lifelong service to the country.
Also watch: Mashujaa Day in Kajiado turns into a tribute to Raila Odinga
Ruto honours Raila during Mashujaa Day celebrations
President Ruto said the honour was given “on behalf of a grateful nation,” describing Raila as a “towering patriot and a hero for the ages.” He noted that the award was issued under the public seal of the Republic of Kenya, at a time when the country continues to observe seven days of mourning following Raila’s death earlier this month.
“The government and the people of Kenya inscribe Raila Odinga’s name among the foremost of our heroes under the public seal of the Republic of Kenya,” President Ruto declared in his Mashujaa Day address.
He added: “On behalf of a grateful nation, and through the authority vested in me as president, I have today posthumously conferred upon the Right Honourable Raila Odinga the highest honour of the Republic, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya.”
The C.G.H. award places Raila among a select group of Kenyans recognised for their extraordinary contribution to the country’s growth and unity. President Ruto said the honour symbolised the nation’s appreciation of Raila’s courage, resilience, and lifelong dedication to democracy and justice.
The Mashujaa Day ceremony in Kitui was marked by reflection and respect as Kenyans remembered Raila’s decades of struggle, imprisonment, and leadership. The recognition came as both a tribute and a reminder of his enduring legacy in shaping Kenya’s political and democratic journey.
