Winnie Odinga, the youngest child of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has expressed immense pride following the posthumous award of Kenya’s highest civilian honour to her father, a moment that has ignited a wave of support from Kenyans online.
The EALA MP took to her Instagram shortly after President William Ruto conferred the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.) upon Raila Odinga during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui.
“First Class – Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.). Dated the 20th October, 2025. I’m so very proud of you, Dad. ❤️,” Winnie wrote on her Instagram, ending her message with a love emoji.
The honour was bestowed in recognition of what President Ruto described as Raila Odinga’s “extraordinary contributions and enduring legacy” and his crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s stability.
In his address, President Ruto highlighted a pivotal moment from earlier in the year when the former Prime Minister addressed a Cabinet retreat. He quoted Raila’s powerful statement at that time.
“We may hold lofty visions and great ambitions, that we may dream big, daring dreams, but without a country and a stable political environment, they would remain mere wishes,” according to President Ruto, these were words of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The President emphasized that this philosophy guided Raila’s decision to engage in a political truce and subsequent cooperation.
“When some saw the opportunity to bring down their competitors, even if it meant bringing down the country, Baba chose the stability of Kenya,” President Ruto stated. “For Agwambo, the spectre of a failed State was too grave to contemplate. He understood that leadership is not about personal pride, but about preserving the Republic.”
Ruto eulogized the opposition leader as a “singular spirit, a towering patriot, a hero for the ages,” cementing his place among Kenya’s foremost heroes.
The recognition resonated deeply with Kenyans, who flooded Winnie Odinga’s Instagram comments with messages of support and agreement.
One user commented, “He deserves it fully ❤️❤️❤️❤️ . Long Live Jakom,” a sentiment echoed by many.
Another hailed him as, “Our Gallant soldier, Patriot and Father of our Democracy🙌🙌.”
Reflecting on his indelible mark, a user added, “The star is shining wherever He is.. He didn’t just match he stamped the footprint with boldness that will never be dethroned. Ever. Long Live The Golden Heart.”
Another comment recognized the passing of a legacy, stating, “A true Statesman! The mantle has been passed down 🔥🔥.”
Meanwhile, Kenya continues to mourn the departed hero following President Ruto’s announcement of 7 7-day mourning period to honour Raila’s enduring and unifying legacy, celebrating a man who, in his final years, was widely seen as placing the nation above political rival
