The Government of Kenya has posthumously conferred the country’s highest national honour, the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (First Class), upon the late Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, in recognition of his lifelong dedication to democracy, justice, and public service.
The conferment was made through a special issue of the Kenya Gazette published on Mashujaa Day and signed by President William Samoei Ruto.
The Gazette described the late former Prime Minister as one of the principal architects of Kenya’s modern democratic order and a statesman of rare moral courage.
“In testimony whereof, and on behalf of an eternally grateful nation, I, William Samoei Ruto, do posthumously confer the following title of honour to— Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya First Class – Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.),” the notice read.
The President noted his unwavering commitment to justice, freedom, and equitable development.
President William Ruto inspecting a guard of honour during Mashujaa Day celebrations/Kevin Macharia/DPCSPresident William Ruto inspecting a guard of honour during Mashujaa Day celebrations/Kevin Macharia/DPCS
“Kenya, Africa and the world suffered immeasurable loss with the passing of the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga,”
Raila, who served as a university lecturer, a Member of Parliament for over two decades, Cabinet Minister, and the country’s second Prime Minister, was praised for his endurance, sacrifice, and dedication to good governance and Pan-African ideals.
The Gazette further noted that Odinga’s “towering legacy will forever endure in the hearts and minds of all,” describing him as a unifier, visionary patriot, and champion of justice.
President Ruto said the honour was conferred “in reverent recognition of the Late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga’s extraordinary contribution, shining legacy, and the bottomless debt of gratitude owed to him.”
Raila now joins the ranks of Kenya’s foremost national heroes, with his name inscribed among the country’s most decorated citizens.
The proclamation was made under Article 132(4)(c) of the Constitution, which empowers the President to confer national honours in recognition of distinguished service to the nation.
