Pressure is mounting on the Kenyan government to rename the under-construction Talanta Stadium in Nairobi after the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The debate gained momentum during Kenya’s 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations, when Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja publicly urged President William Ruto to consider renaming the 60,000-seat stadium “Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium.” Speaking before a jubilant crowd at Nyayo National Stadium, Sakaja appealed to the President on behalf of Nairobi's residents, drawing loud applause and chants of support from the audience. 

“On behalf of the people of Nairobi, we ask you to agree to rename the stadium in solidarity with our father who led us,” Sakaja said, prompting an emotional response from the crowd, who repeatedly chanted, “The voice of the people is the voice of God.”

President Ruto did not immediately respond to the proposal but later observed a moment of silence in honour of Odinga, whose death has deeply affected the nation. His decision to remain silent on the issue has led to speculation about whether the government will accede to public demand or maintain the stadium’s original name.

The Talanta Stadium, slated for completion in March 2026, is one of the largest sports development projects in Kenya's history. In addition to the main arena, the complex will feature three training facilities, including a 2,000-capacity mini-stadium with an eight-lane athletics track. While the main stadium will not include a track, the smaller facility ensures that athletics and other sports are central to the development.

Calls for the renaming of the stadium have intensified in the wake of Odinga’s passing. Jamhuri Day, traditionally a celebration of Kenya’s independence, took on a more somber tone this year, as many mourned the absence of Odinga, who had been a prominent figure at national events for decades. His death has left a significant void, and his legacy is widely recognised for shaping Kenya’s political landscape.

Attendees at Nyayo Stadium, many of whom had arrived early to mark the day, expressed mixed emotions. Richard, holding a Kenyan flag, described his presence as an act of patriotism. Hellen Anyango, visibly emotional, noted her struggle to accept Odinga’s absence. 

“Siamini Baba hajaattend hapa… but rest in peace,” she said, her voice breaking. 

Linet Musungu, from Nyayo Highrise Ward, called for national unity despite the loss, urging Kenyans to cherish the peace that Odinga had worked to uphold.