I Wish I Had Met Him — Emotional Gor Mahia Coach Pays Tribute to Raila Odinga

Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has paid a glowing tribute to the late Raila Odinga as he expressed one major regret he has.

Raila Odinga, a towering figure in the nation's political landscape for over four decades, passed away on October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India, where he was undergoing medical treatment. Reports indicated he suffered a cardiac arrest.

Raila Odinga was a central figure in Kenya's struggle for multi-party democracy and served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 in a coalition government.

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Charles Akonnor expressed that during his stay in Kenya, he had come to understand just how revered Raila Odinga was across the nation and had hoped for the chance to meet him.

The Gor Mahia coach remarked that it was deeply unfortunate that Raila Odinga was no longer alive to witness how much he was loved by the masses.

Charles Akonnor noted that the former Prime Minister’s legacy holds immense weight and continues to influence the lives of many Kenyans, describing his impact as truly remarkable.

“Of course, now that I’ve been here and I’ve heard a lot about him, and I was looking forward to seeing him and unfortunately, he has passed on. I mean, he should have been here to see what is going on in this country; the kind of weight he carries is unbelievable,” he shared.

Charles Akonnor recalled witnessing the overwhelming reception Raila Odinga’s body received, saying it was clear from that moment alone how much he had contributed to the country.

He expressed regret that he never got the chance to meet him in person, considering Odinga one of the most influential figures not only in Kenya but across Africa.

Charles Akonnor added that he remembered Raila Odinga’s involvement in diplomatic efforts back in Ghana around 2007, reinforcing his belief that the late leader was truly a great man whose influence stretched far beyond national borders.

“I mean, the other day when he arrived at the airport, nobody needs to tell you what he’s done for this country, and it is quite unfortunate that I couldn’t see him, but he is part of the people I believe played a bigger role, not just for Kenya, but the whole continent. When I was in Ghana, I think in 2007, when we had issues, that is when I saw him, he is a great man,” he added.

Charles Akonnor concluded by noting that although he never had the privilege of shaking Raila Odinga’s hand, he felt honoured to be coaching in a country shaped by the late statesman’s courage and vision.