As Arsenal Football Club clinched the English Premier League title for the 2025/26 season — ending a 22-year drought — tributes poured in from across Kenya, with many dedicating the historic victory to the late opposition icon Raila Odinga, a passionate lifelong Gooner.
The outpouring began prominently with Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy & Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho, who posted on X:
Accompanied by celebratory images, Joho’s message captured the sentiment of thousands of Kenyan Arsenal fans who saw the triumph as a long-awaited gift for “Baba” (Raila), who passed away in October 2025.
Raila Odinga was a well-known Arsenal supporter, frequently pictured at the Emirates Stadium and openly cheering for the Gunners. His death last year triggered an emotional wave among local fans, many of whom began dedicating Arsenal’s campaign to his memory.
The club’s eventual victory has reignited those tributes, with social media filled with messages blending football joy and remembrance. Widespread TributesOther fans echoed similar sentiments online. One wrote: “If Baba Raila Odinga was still alive, he would be the happiest person seeing Arsenal lift the Premier League trophy.”
Another added: “Baba Raila Odinga left us in the hands of Arsenal and that’s where we are.”Posts also recalled shared moments, such as Joho and Raila watching games together. While some reactions mixed politics with football — including criticism of Joho’s post — the dominant tone remained one of celebration “For Baba.”
Arsenal secured the title with a game to spare, finishing atop the table on 82 points after strong performances, including a decisive win over Burnley.
The victory sparked fireworks at the Emirates and nationwide rejoicing among Gooners in Kenya.A Poetic LegacyRaila’s support for Arsenal mirrored his resilient political journey, and fans have noted poetic timing in the club’s success following his passing.
From visits to his home by Arsenal supporters to online dedications, the late leader’s influence on Kenyan football culture remains evident.As one fan summed it up: “Congratulations to Arsenal… Baba is happy.
May his soul continue resting in peace.”The flood of messages underscores how deeply Raila Odinga’s legacy intertwined with everyday Kenyan passions — politics, community, and the beautiful game.