Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has expressed his disappointment over the decision by President William Ruto to award the late Raila Odinga the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart posthumously.
Speaking on Monday, October 20, 2025, the governor questioned the timing and sincerity of the gesture, wondering why such an honour could not have been given to Raila while he was still alive.Natembeya said he listened to the president’s speech with disbelief as he announced the award.
According to him, the honour, which is Kenya’s highest civilian recognition, has traditionally been reserved for sitting or former presidents. He questioned the rationale behind breaking that tradition after Raila’s death, describing the move as a reflection of the country’s hypocrisy.
“We are a pretentious, incorrigible country. What prevented the president from honouring Raila with that CGH honour when he was alive? Of what value is it for now? He would not have gone around hanging it around his neck,” he remarked.
The governor noted that Kenya has developed a habit of celebrating people only after their death instead of appreciating them while they can still feel the nation’s gratitude.
He said that this culture of posthumous recognition not only diminishes the meaning of such honours but also exposes the dishonesty in the country’s leadership and institutions.
According to Natembeya, true patriotism is shown by recognising heroes in their lifetime, not when it serves political convenience or public image.He went on to urge Kenyans to embrace honesty and reflection if the country hopes to move forward.
“Our national heroes need to be recognised and honoured when they are alive. Until our country stops being pretentious and hypocritical, then we can speak of the issues we are speaking of, like moving from a third-world country to a first-world,” he said.
His remarks struck a chord with many Kenyans who have long criticised the government for politicising national recognition and using awards to score points rather than genuinely appreciate contribution.
Raila Odinga’s name appeared among those honoured during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, following a nationwide nomination process led by the National Heroes Council and the Ministry of Interior.
The selection was conducted under the National Heroes Act of 2014, which guides how individuals are nominated and vetted for national honours.
Nominations came from county governments, civil society, public institutions, and ordinary citizens, focusing on integrity, impact, and contribution to Kenya’s unity and development.
Raila joined the list of leaders like Mwai Kibaki, Wangari Maathai, Jomo Kenyatta, and Daniel arap Moi, who were also honoured posthumously.
Others recognised for their role in liberation and social justice included Gitu wa Kahengeri, Mwararia Emilio M’kanga, and Gatabaki wa Mundati. The awards also celebrated achievements in theatre, arts, environmental conservation, climate action, education, and research.
Despite the national pride associated with the ceremony, Natembeya’s comments exposed a deeper debate on how Kenya values its heroes. His sentiments reflected a growing frustration among citizens who feel that the nation too often waits for funerals to celebrate individuals who shaped its history. For many, the governor’s remarks served as a reminder that honouring the living with sincerity is a more meaningful way to build a nation that truly values its heroes.
