Gor Mahia mark KPL title with Raila tribute, present trophies to Amb. Ida

Tony Owori
By Tony Owori June 01, 2026 06:03 (EAT)
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Gor Mahia mark KPL title with Raila tribute, present trophies to Amb. Ida

Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier speaks during their trophy presentation to Raila Odinga's family in Karen, Nairobi on June 1. Photo by Tony Owori/Citizen Digital.

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The champagne had barely dried at Nyayo Stadium. But for Gor Mahia, the real celebration wasn't complete until they made one last stop: Mama Ida Odinga's doorstep.

Just one day after being crowned 2025/2026 Kenyan Premier League champions before a euphoric sell-out crowd, the entire Gor Mahia delegation, players, technical bench and top officials descended on the Odinga family home in Karen today. Their mission? To deliver two trophies and fulfill their former Patron’s wish.

The man in question was Raila Odinga, the late opposition icon and former club patron, who passed away last year. Before his death, he reportedly summoned club chairman Ambrose Rachier and issued what can only be described as a royal decree.

"Baba asked us why our standards were dropping," Rachier revealed during the emotionally charged ceremony.

"We told him the truth: financial struggles. He gave us a handsome cushion, then looked us in the eye and ordered two things: win the ODM Cup in Mombasa and win the league this season."

Today, standing before a beaming Mama Ida Odinga, Rachier pointed to the silverware and declared: "Mission accomplished. These are the two trophies Baba ordered. We are here to deliver."

Mama Ida received the champions not as visitors but as family.

"Let me make one thing clear," she said, her voice carrying both joy and nostalgia. "This is your home. Not just today. Any day, anytime, you are welcome here."

She added: "We have walked with Gor Mahia for many years. That walk does not end because Baba is gone. Your hard work, your sweat, your dedication is well appreciated. Congratulations, our champions."

The afternoon took an even more intimate turn when Raila Odinga Jr. stepped forward. He admitted that the gathering was no accident; it was inspired by the thunderous reception he received at Nyayo Stadium the previous day.

"Yesterday, I sat among you at the final match. The way you welcomed me, the love I felt, it moved me deeply. I knew right then that I had to invite you here. Not as a formality, but as a family celebrating together. Please, feel treasured. Feel at home."

The championship is more than a trophy to Gor Mahia. It is a testament to a promise kept, not just to fans but to a patron who from his final days, dared them to rise again.

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