ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale has revealed that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was a devoted fan of English football giants Arsenal FC.
Speaking on a national radio station in Nairobi on Saturday, April 4, Etale disclosed that Raila was a platinum member of the club and would contribute up to KSh1 million annually in support.
He added that should Arsenal clinch the English Premier League title this season, fans plan to gather at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Raila’s rural home in Bondo Sub-county, to celebrate the triumph in his honour.
“If Arsenal lift this season’s EPL title, we will all converge at Raila’s home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi to celebrate the Gunners’ victory with him, since he was an astute fan of the football club,” Etale said.
Etale also opened up about his personal relationship with the ODM leader, saying he is yet to come to terms with his death. He noted that their bond went beyond work, revealing he had known Raila since childhood.
He recounted a memorable moment when Raila attended his father’s funeral and shared a meal, an act he described as unusual and deeply touching. The gesture, he said, surprised many, including the late Jakoyo Midiwo.
“I still feel the pain. I knew him so well. Even when my father died, Raila came and even ate, something that was unusual. This shocked many, including Jakoyo Midiwo,” Etale said.
He further revealed that the relationship between their families dates back decades, noting that Raila’s father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, was a close friend of his own father.
Meanwhile, Arsenal sit top of the Premier League table with 70 points after 31 matches, ahead of Manchester City on 61 points. Should the Gunners maintain their lead, they are on course to be crowned champions of the 2025/2026 season, ending a long wait for the title.
