NAIROBI, Kenya — Former President Uhuru Kenyatta lightened the solemn atmosphere at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday as he recalled deeply personal and humorous conversations shared with the late Raila Odinga, whom he eulogized as a brother, friend, and unwavering patriot.
Mr. Kenyatta described evenings spent in mutual reflection on life and the nation’s future, often indulging in speculation about their fathers, Jomo Kenyatta and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, in the afterlife.
“Sometimes after work, we would sit together, talking and laughing,” Mr. Kenyatta revealed. “I once asked him — those old men who died before us, Jaramogi and Jomo when they sit, what do they discuss? I said they must talk about politics just like us.”
He paused, a moment of shared reflection with the crowd, before adding a poignant, softly-chuckle-inducing remark: “But now, Raila, you’ve left and you’re talking with them. It’s not that I’m in a hurry to come where you are but I still want to be around.”
The mood swiftly turned sombre as the former President’s tone became deeply emotional, acknowledging the profound impact of Odinga’s death.
“My heart is heavy, and my spirit is burdened with a grief that is both profound and deeply personal,” he stated. “The news of Raila’s passing has left a silence that echoes across our nation a silence where once there was a voice of thunder and conviction.”
Mr. Kenyatta characterized Odinga as a foundational figure who shaped Kenya’s political narrative, not merely as an adversary, but ultimately as an essential partner in the mission of nation-building.
From rivalry to statesmanship
He reflected candidly on their complex political history, acknowledging the fierce competition that defined their relationship before their eventual collaboration.
“Raila and I were navigators on opposing currents, charting different courses for the nation we both loved,” Kenyatta explained. “At some point along that journey, we became political opponents. The competition was tough, but from it came respect and a shared patriotism.”
Mr. Kenyatta highlighted the 2018 “Handshake” as the true measure of Odinga’s statesmanship, a moment that demonstrated his commitment to national cohesion above personal political gain. He noted that Odinga’s formidable presence consistently demanded the best from his competitors.
“He made you sharpen your ideas, defend your positions, and think beyond yourself,” he said, praising the late leader’s fundamental character. “He loved Kenya more than anything else he was not tribal, and he always stood for unity, peace, and justice.”
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In closing, the former President issued a call to action, urging Kenyans to safeguard the democratic ideals and peaceful coexistence for which Odinga fought throughout his life.
“As we bid him farewell, let’s promise to ensure that the democracy and freedoms Raila fought for will never be wiped away,” he implored the nation. “We will not allow this country to go backwards that is what Raila would have wanted.”
Mr. Kenyatta concluded his tribute by expressing gratitude to Mama Ida Odinga and the family for sharing their loved one with the nation.
“I have come to mourn a friend and a brother,” he affirmed. “Even in our sadness, let’s take the opportunity to appreciate Mama Ida and the family. To Kenyans, I say thank you for giving us Raila.”
