President William Ruto has awarded Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.), the country’s highest civilian honour.
The posthumous award was presented on Monday during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.
Ruto said he conferred the honour on behalf of a grateful nation, describing Odinga as a towering patriot and a hero for the ages. The recognition came as Kenya observed seven days of national mourning following Odinga’s death earlier this month.
The late ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga. Photo: Tuko Source: Facebook
“The government and the people of Kenya inscribe Raila Odinga’s name among the foremost of our heroes,” Ruto said in his Mashujaa Day address.
“Through the authority vested in me as president, I have posthumously conferred upon the Right Honourable Raila Odinga the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya.”
The president praised Odinga’s lifelong dedication to democracy, justice, and national unity, calling him a leader who worked tirelessly for a Kenya that is free, fair, and guided by the rule of law.
Reflecting on Odinga’s legacy, Ruto recalled remarks made during the state funeral when he asked where another Raila might come from.
“The truth is, there will forever be only one Raila Amolo Odinga, a single spirit and a hero for the ages,” he said.
A screenshot detailing the award conferred to the late Raila by Ruto
Ruto urged Kenyans to uphold Odinga’s values by putting love of country above self-interest.
“If we live by the lessons he taught, to love Kenya more than ourselves, to serve with courage and conviction, we can become a nation of 50 million heroes,” he said.
Ruto dedicated this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations to Odinga’s enduring spirit of unity and selflessness.