Dressed in the club’s famous green and white colours, the supporters transformed the lakeside city into a moving sea of unity and remembrance.
The march, which began at Kisumu Sports Ground, drew fans from all corners of the country. Singing club anthems and waving flags, they began their journey towards Kango Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County — the final resting place of the man they fondly called “Baba.”
The march, which began at Kisumu Sports Ground, drew fans from all corners of the country. Singing club anthems and waving flags, they began their journey towards Kango Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County — the final resting place of the man they fondly called “Baba.”
For them, this was not just a football event but a heartfelt farewell to a man whose love for Gor Mahia went beyond politics.
Raila Odinga, who served as the team’s patron for many years, was known to be one of its most loyal supporters.
Raila Odinga, who served as the team’s patron for many years, was known to be one of its most loyal supporters.
Through good and bad seasons, he stood by the club, often encouraging the players and even stepping in to help when the team faced financial troubles.
Fans recall countless moments when Raila attended matches, celebrating victories and consoling the team after defeats.
His connection to Gor Mahia was so strong that just days before his passing — on October 8, 2025 — he had given the club a generous donation of Ksh10 million to support their upcoming season.
Many supporters now see that gesture as his final act of love to the team that held a special place in his heart.
“Raila was not just a politician to us. He was part of the Gor Mahia family,” said one fan during the procession.
“Raila was not just a politician to us. He was part of the Gor Mahia family,” said one fan during the procession.
“He showed us that football can unite people across tribes and backgrounds.”
The march through Kisumu was both festive and solemn. Supporters carried banners bearing Raila’s image, while others sang songs praising his leadership and passion for the game.
The march through Kisumu was both festive and solemn. Supporters carried banners bearing Raila’s image, while others sang songs praising his leadership and passion for the game.
Traffic briefly came to a standstill as residents watched the emotional display, with some joining in the chants of “Gor! Gor! K’Ogalo!”
The procession is expected to conclude in Bondo, where fans plan to lay wreaths and hold a moment of silence at Raila’s grave.
The procession is expected to conclude in Bondo, where fans plan to lay wreaths and hold a moment of silence at Raila’s grave.
Organizers say the tribute symbolizes more than just mourning — it represents the enduring bond between Kenya’s most celebrated football club and one of the country’s most influential leaders.To Gor Mahia fans, Raila Odinga will forever be remembered not only as a national icon but also as a true supporter who loved the beautiful game.
His spirit, they say, will live on in every goal scored and every chant sung from the stands.
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