NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto paid moving tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during the State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, describing the late veteran politician as a guiding figure in Kenya’s democratic evolution and a dedicated advocate for unity and justice.
Reflecting on his shared and often tumultuous political history with Odinga—affectionately known as “Baba”—President Ruto acknowledged the pivotal role the opposition figure played in stabilizing the nation during critical moments.
“I have come a very long way with Baba. I never imagined he would one day stand with me to steady the nation. To you, Baba, I owe you. I am truly and eternally grateful that our paths crossed, and that we shared this journey together,” Ruto said, expressing deep personal gratitude.
The President further lauded Odinga’s defining characteristic: his willingness to elevate national interest above personal ambition.
“Whenever the nation needed him to rise above self, he always did so unreservedly. Whenever Kenya needed reason, he became the voice of reason courageously,” Ruto affirmed.
Recalling Odinga’s consistent political principles, the President added, “Those who worked closely with Raila Odinga know he was irrevocably stubborn in his vision for a just, prosperous, and united Kenya—a nation where opportunities belong to all.”
An era concludes
Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics and a champion of multi-party democracy, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80 while receiving medical attention in India. His death marks the conclusion of a political era defined by his tireless fight for electoral justice and the rights of ordinary citizens.
Despite his repeated attempts—losing five presidential elections, including his final bid in 2022—Odinga remained a central, transformative force in the country’s political landscape.
His closest tenure in executive power was serving as Prime Minister in a coalition government between 2008 and 2013, following a contentious election result.
Also Read: Uhuru Kenyatta’s humorous, emotional tribute to Raila Odinga
Throughout his career, he relentlessly championed reforms aimed at strengthening democratic institutions.
Mourners at the State Funeral paid solemn tribute, utilizing branches and palm fronds—traditional expressions of grief within the Luo community, to which Odinga belonged.
The State Funeral service precedes the final interment on Sunday at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.
This follows a family disclosure that it was Odinga’s specific wish to be buried within the shortest possible time, ideally within 72 hours of his passing.
His departure leaves a significant void for the opposition as the country looks toward the 2027 general elections.
