By Hope Barbra
In what could be described as a symbolic final gesture to his boyhood team, Gor Mahia, the club’s patron Raila Odinga hosted the team for what was termed a landmark breakfast ahead of his travel to India for treatment.
During the breakfast, Raila made his last wish: “I want you to be champions again.” Gor Mahia have won the Premier League a record 21 times and the FKF President’s Cup a record 11 times.
Raila, who died on Wednesday morning in India, described the breakfast meeting as “the big visit,” which Gor Mahia later shared on their official X handle.
An incredible visit to our patron, Hon. Raila Odinga, and Mama Ida Odinga’s home in Karen. The club management had a good time.
In demonstration of his unwavering commitment and truly generous gesture, our patron presented the club with a monumental gift of Sh10 million to support administrative functions.
We are deeply grateful to our patron and his family,” the club posted.
Raila also wrote on his X handle:
“As the new football season kicks off, I had the pleasure of being briefed by Gor Mahia @OfficialGMFC football club’s executive team, led by chairman Ambrose Rachier, on the club’s campaign plans for the season.
Wishing K’Ogalo all the very best as they fly the green flag higher and strive to return as champions once again. Let’s go Gor Mahia.”
While Raila was in his sickbed, Gor Mahia did not disappoint their patron. The team participated in a four-team tournament marking ODM’s 20th anniversary, which featured Gor Mahia, Bandari, AFC Leopards, and Shabana FC — and Gor Mahia emerged the winners.
Gor Mahia Chairman Ambrose Rachier expressed shock over the death of their long-serving patron.
“Raila became Gor Mahia’s club patron after taking over from former Kisumu Central MP Job Omino. It has been over 30 years since he assumed the role. His coming in as patron stabilized the club and made an important statement about leadership, emphasizing the need to avoid wrangles in management.
He took the headaches for us, and he was vindicated. Since 2008, we have won 11 trophies and restored confidence among fans and sponsors.
In 2012, he secured sponsorship for us from Tuzo, and later from SportPesa and Azam TV.
He would often encourage players, invite us unexpectedly, and make surprise presentations. We have lost a great leader as a club,” Rachier said.
