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Civil society group petitions for Raila Odinga statue in Parliament
Peter Agoro, chairperson of the Consortium of Civil Societies in Kenya, has petitioned Parliament to erect a statue honouring former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
A coalition of civil society organisations has petitioned Parliament to erect a statue honouring former Prime Minister Raila Odinga within the precincts of Parliament Buildings, citing his decades-long contributions to Kenya’s democracy, constitutional reforms, and human rights advocacy.
Led by Peter Agoro, chairperson of the Consortium of Civil Societies in Kenya, the petitioners argue that Odinga’s legacy, spanning over four decades, warrants permanent recognition akin to other national heroes such as Field Marshall Dedan Kimathi and Tom Mboya.
The petition highlights Odinga’s role in Kenya’s political evolution, fight for rights of minority groups, gender equality, protection of human rights and rule of the law –reigniting conversations about how Kenya memorialises its political figures.
Describing Odinga as a "Father of Democracy", "Champion for Women’s Empowerment", "Human Rights Defender", "Minority Rights Advocate", and "Ardent Proponent of Devolution", the petitioners believe his legacy is worth immortalising.
"As a champion for women's empowerment and gender equality, Odinga has advocated for equal opportunities in political, economic, and social spheres, embodying Article 27(3) of the Constitution and promoting the two-thirds gender rule under Article 81(b)," says the petitioners.
"As a global icon, statesman, and true legend, Odinga's pan-African leadership and international diplomacy have elevated Kenya's stature, consistent with Article 2(5) and (6) on international law and treaties".
Raila Odinga during interview at his Karen home in Nairobi on November 27, 2020.
They also note his leadership in the push for the 2010 Constitution, his mediation with the late President Mwai Kibaki during the 2007-2008 post-election crisis, and his advocacy for multiparty politics and devolution.
"Despite his immense contributions, Kenya lacks a national monument honouring him," the petition reads.
The petitioners say erecting Odinga's statue within precincts of Parliament building would serve as a "moral compass for lawmakers", reminding them of the democratic ideals he fought for.
“Erecting the statue within the precincts of Parliament Buildings would inspire Members of Parliament daily with the ideals Odinga stood and fought for, serving as a constant reminder against passing draconian bills that erode the democratic gains, multi-partyism, constitutional protections, Bill of Rights, and devolution he championed, thereby fostering accountability and upholding the rule of law,” argues Mr Agoro.
The petition cites multiple constitutional provisions, including Article 11, which mandates the state to promote cultural expression through arts and heritage, and Article 119, which grants citizens the right to petition Parliament.
It also draws parallels with international examples such as the Lincoln Memorial in the US and Winston Churchill’s statue in the United Kingdom.
"Such monuments serve as enduring educational tools, fostering national pride and historical awareness, in line with Article 11(2) of the Constitution on promoting cultural expression through arts and heritage," it adds.
The petitioners claim widespread backing from civil society, youth groups, and politicians across the political divide for the proposal, insisting that Odinga's contributions transcend partisan lines.
Military personnel during the funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University on October 19, 2025.
They believe erecting the statue would also link generations to Kenya's democratic journey, inspiring future leaders and upholding Article 10 of the Constitution on patriotism and national unity. The petition has since been received by the Clerk of the National Assembly.
Parliament is expected to review the petition in line with constitutional procedures. If approved, the statue would join other national monuments celebrating Kenya’s liberation heroes and political trailblazers.
"The time has come to immortalise Raila Odinga’s legacy," Mr Agoro said alongside another petitioner, John Wangai.
"This is not just about honouring one man but preserving Kenya’s democratic journey for future generations and to safeguard against any regression or erosion of the democratic and constitutional gains through the enactment of draconian or retrogressive legislations."
