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Thousands of Gor Mahia fans lay flowers on Raila’s grave
Gor Mahia fans at the gravesite of the club patron and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County on November 11, 2025.
What you need to know:
- Wearing the club’s iconic green and white jerseys, the fans first gathered at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Ground in Kisumu.
- Armed with drums, clubs, and spears, the fans chanted traditional slogans praising the late political icon and avid football supporter.
Hundreds of Gor Mahia fans from across the country converged on Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo on Tuesday to pay their final respects to the club’s long-time patron, the late Raila Odinga.
Wearing the club’s iconic green and white jerseys, the fans first gathered at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Ground in Kisumu. Then, they travelled to Bondo in a convoy of over 60 vehicles. The former prime minister was laid to rest on October 19.
Armed with drums, clubs, and spears, the fans chanted traditional slogans praising the late political icon and avid football supporter.
“Since he died, we have not had a chance to pay our respects. Today, we organised this convoy to honour our patron. Baba did so much for Gor Mahia before leaving for treatment in India. He gave the club Sh10 million for operations,” said Nick Okello, one of the fans.
At Kang’o ka Jaramogi, the supporters described Odinga as a passionate patron who supported the club wholeheartedly.
Many recalled how he would often come to the stadium to cheer on the team and provide financial help whenever the club was facing challenges.
Gor Mahia fans unfurl a giant portrait of club patron Raila Odinga during the SportPesa League match against Kenya Police FC at Nyayo National Stadium on November 9, 2025.
“You have left us, but your love, legacy, and good deeds will live forever,” said Eunice Awino, a team member who visited the grave.
“He was the longest-serving patron. On many occasions, he used his own funds to support the team and ensure that they could play their matches,” she added.
The fans laid wreaths on Raila’s grave and performed rituals to show their respect.
“We called him Jowi because he was fearless, Agwambo because no one could truly understand him, and Enigma because his achievements were extraordinary,” said George Owino of Gor Mahia’s Kariobangi branch.
Raila’s bond with football went way back. As a young man, he played for Luo Union, one of the teams that eventually merged to form Gor Mahia. His passion for the game and loyalty to Gor Mahia made him a legend among fans.
The visit by Gor supporters was just the latest since Raila’s burial.
