By President William Ruto has paid glowing tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a guiding light in Kenya’s political journey and a steadfast champion of unity, democracy, and justice.
Speaking during Odinga’s State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Friday, President Ruto reflected on their long and complex political relationship, acknowledging Odinga’s influence in shaping the nation’s democratic path.
“I have come a very long way with Baba,” Ruto said, using Odinga’s popular nickname. “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.”
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Ruto praised the late opposition leader’s unwavering commitment to national unity, noting that Odinga repeatedly rose above personal interest whenever the country faced crisis.
“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 added.
The President also highlighted Odinga’s resolute political vision, describing him as “irrevocably stubborn” in his pursuit of a fair and inclusive Kenya.
“Those who worked closely with Raila Odinga know he was deeply committed to building a just, prosperous, and united nation—a Kenya where opportunity belongs to all,” he said.
Odinga, aged 80, passed away on Wednesday while receiving medical treatment in India for an undisclosed illness. His death marks the end of a defining era in Kenya’s post-independence politics.
Fondly referred to as “Baba” by his supporters, Odinga was a towering figure in the struggle for multi-party democracy and civil rights. Despite losing five presidential elections, he remained an enduring force in the country’s political discourse, often shaping national debate and advocating for electoral and constitutional reforms.
He served as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013 in a coalition government formed after the disputed 2007 election—one of Kenya’s most turbulent political periods.
Thousands of mourners packed Nyayo Stadium to pay their last respects, waving palm fronds and tree branches—traditional symbols of mourning among the Luo community.
The State Funeral comes amid seven days of national mourning declared by the government. Odinga will be laid to rest on Sunday at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, about 60 kilometers west of Kisumu.
According to the family, it was his wish to be buried within 72 hours of his death.
As Kenya mourns one of its most influential political icons, President Ruto said Odinga’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
“He taught us that leadership is not about power, but about service,” Ruto said. “In his passing, Kenya has lost a great son — and Africa, a true statesman.”
