The 2026 National Heroes publication recognises Odinga posthumously for advancing multiparty democracy, constitutional reform and political inclusion.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is among 264 Kenyans receiving Mashujaa Day honours during celebrations in Uasin Gishu County. The recognition acknowledges his contribution to multiparty democracy, constitutional reform and political inclusion.
The 2026 National Heroes publication recognises Odinga posthumously in the statesmanship category. His entry highlights decades of political work, including his service as Prime Minister, opposition leader and Member of Parliament.
Mashujaa Day honours highlight democratic reform
The publication credits Odinga with helping challenge one-party dominance during the struggle for multiparty democracy in the 1990s. It also recognises his role in widening political freedoms.
During his tenure as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, Odinga championed political, social and economic reforms. The publication highlights the promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, among those milestones.
Beyond his premiership, the recognition covers his advocacy for electoral justice and political inclusion. It also acknowledges his defence of the rights of marginalised communities throughout his parliamentary and opposition leadership.
Diplomats and constitutional reform advocates recognised
Former Cabinet Secretary and diplomat Ambassador Amina Chawahir Mohamed also features in the statesmanship category. Other honourees include several leaders receiving posthumous recognition for contributions to Kenya’s political and constitutional development.
They include former Bomet Governor Joyce Cherono Laboso and former Eldoret North MP Philomena Mutai Chelagat. Constitutional scholar Professor Crispin Odhiambo Mbai and senior counsel Pheroze Eruch Nowrojee also appear on the list.
Chelagat’s recognition highlights her work advancing democracy, gender equality and the rights of marginalised groups. Meanwhile, Nowrojee’s entry acknowledges his defence of democratic reform advocates during the one-party era and contribution to constitutional change.
Mbai’s recognition similarly focuses on constitutional reform. It also highlights his contribution to devolution and the protection of marginalised communities.
Sports and enterprise feature across 14 categories
Beyond politics, the honours cover sports, business, human rights, culture, research and community development. The list reflects the range of national service recognised under the Kenya Heroes Act, 2014.
In sports, the publication recognises marathon world-record holder Sebastian Kimaru Sawe. It credits him with becoming the first person to complete a sub-two-hour marathon in a record-eligible race at the 2026 London Marathon.
The entrepreneurship and industry category also recognises contributions to manufacturing, agriculture, financial services and employment creation.
The National Heroes Council says its selection process includes public participation, nomination, evaluation and scrutiny. Honourees come from 14 categories.
Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties are hosting the celebrations, which honour contributions to Kenya’s social, political and economic development.
