NAIROBI, Kenya- The five-sided shape of Raila Odinga’s mausoleum is meant to carry two ideas: unity in Luo tradition and the political alliance that helped propel him towards the presidency in 2007.
President William Ruto explained the symbolism during the mausoleum’s handover and dedication at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo on October 7.
In his speech, he said the number five, known as Abich among the Luo, represents unity, togetherness and completion.
The design also recalls the ODM Pentagon, the group of leaders from across Kenya who united behind Raila’s presidential campaign in 2007.
Ruto said he had been part of that political moment and had seen how Raila built bridges between communities.
The mausoleum’s shape therefore links a cultural reference with a defining episode in Raila’s political career.
It reflects the theme of unity that Ruto said ran through both.
A five-sided monument beside Jaramogi’s
The pentagonal mausoleum stands beside the six-sided resting place of Raila’s father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice-President.
Ruto described the two structures as distinct in shape but joined by a shared purpose, reflecting the political legacy of father and son.
Raila’s mausoleum was officially dedicated and handed over during a state ceremony led by Ruto, as Kenya prepares to mark the first anniversary of the former Prime Minister’s death.
Ruto said the structure was only the first phase of a wider memorial project.
The next phase is expected to include a Raila Memorial Library, Museum and Research Centre, with historical materials and exhibitions on Kenya’s political and democratic journey.
The site is also intended to serve as a learning centre for young Kenyans and visitors from across Africa.
Ruto said it could become a heritage destination and create jobs and income for people in Siaya and the wider region.
The mausoleum is thus designed to do more than mark Raila’s final resting place.
Its five sides connect the family’s history, Luo symbolism and the political coalition that shaped one of Kenya’s most consequential election campaigns.
