The government has posthumously honoured the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga with the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (First Class), the country’s highest national award, in recognition of his lifelong dedication to justice, democracy, and public service.
In a Special Issue of the Kenya Gazette dated October 20, 2025, President William Samoei Ruto described Raila Odinga as one of the principal architects of Kenya’s modern democratic order. The Gazette notice acknowledged Raila’s “immeasurable loss” to Kenya, Africa, and the world, noting that he “dedicated the entirety of his adult life to the pursuit of justice, freedom, and the equitable development of Kenya and advancement of her people.”
The document further highlighted Odinga’s service to the nation, recalling that he served on both sides of the House, in government and opposition, and as the Second Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya. It stated that throughout his life, he exemplified courage, endurance, dedication, an unwavering commitment to democracy, good governance, sacrifice, Pan-Africanism, and faithful service to all of humanity.
In conferring the honour, President Ruto emphasized that Raila Odinga’s legacy will forever endure in the hearts and minds of all, inspiring future generations of Kenyans and Africans.
“In eternal gratitude and remembrance, the Republic of Kenya inscribes his name among the foremost of our national heroes,” the statement read.
The posthumous award, conferred during Mashujaa Day celebrations, cements Raila Odinga’s place among Kenya’s most revered statesmen, remembered for his lifelong pursuit of justice and unity.
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