Oketch Salah Praises Ruto for Honouring Raila Odinga Through Bayern Munich-Ajax Match

Oketch Salah has praised President William Ruto for honouring the legacy of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga through football following the announcement that European clubs Bayern Munich and Ajax will play at the Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi on January 5, 2027.

In an emotional tribute, Salah described the fixture as a proud moment for Kenya, saying it would bring together football fans to celebrate the opening of the stadium named after the late opposition leader.

He noted that the event was particularly meaningful given Raila’s love for football and his close connection with ordinary Kenyans.

“What a proud and emotional moment for Kenya! Bayern Munich and Ajax, two giants of European football, will grace the opening of the Raila Odinga International Stadium on 5 January 2027. Imagine the excitement, the flags and the thousands of Kenyans coming together to celebrate football in a stadium carrying Baba’s name!” Salah wrote.

Salah says Raila would be proud of Ruto’s tribute

Salah suggested that Raila would be pleased to see his legacy celebrated through the high-profile football event, describing it as a heartfelt tribute to the former prime minister.

“Baba must be smiling in his eternal rest, seeing his younger brother, His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto, continue to honour his memory even after his passing. For a man who loved football and cherished being among the people, this is a tribute that touches the heart,” he added.

In a separate message, Salah reiterated his appreciation for Ruto, saying the president was keeping Raila’s memory alive by honouring his name and passion for the sport.

“Baba must be smiling in eternal rest as his younger brother honours his name and love for football. Thank you, H.E. President Ruto! Baba’s legacy lives on! USAWA NI SAWA! MBELE PAMOJA!” he wrote.

Salah thanks Ruto for making the match possible

Salah also thanked the president for facilitating the occasion, saying the match would inspire young footballers, give fans a memorable experience and place Kenya on the international sporting stage.

“Mr President, thank you for making this occasion possible. You are giving our young footballers something to dream about, our fans a moment to cherish and our nation an opportunity to stand proudly before the world,” he stated.

He further expressed hope that the event would demonstrate sport’s ability to unite people across political and social differences.

“As those teams walk onto the pitch, Baba’s name will ring out far beyond Kenya. May that moment remind us of the power of sport to unite us across our differences,” Salah added.

He concluded his tribute by remembering Raila and thanking Ruto for honouring his legacy.

“Rest peacefully, Baba. You remain in our hearts. Thank you, Your Excellency President Ruto, USAWA NI SAWA! MBELE PAMOJA!”