Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday paid glowing tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as “a patriot who loved his country more than anything” and “a father figure to all Kenyans.”
Speaking during the state funeral service at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Kenyatta mourned Odinga as a leader who embodied Kenya’s democratic struggle and whose legacy would live on for generations.
Odinga died on Wednesday in Kochi, India, at the age of 80, after being hospitalized for weeks with an undisclosed illness.
“We gather here today to celebrate the life of a friend and brother, Raila Amolo Odinga — a patriot who loved his country, Kenya, more than anything. A father to all, he was without tribalism and loved all citizens, not because of their tribe or skin color, but for their thoughts, their actions, and their opinions,” Kenyatta said.
He praised Odinga’s lifelong commitment to democracy, justice, and national unity, calling him a leader who gave voice to the voiceless and stood firm for equality.
“The history of Kenya cannot be written without the name of Raila Odinga being number one. He may have left us physically, but in our hearts and in our nation, he will live forever,” Kenyatta said.
The former Head of State urged Kenyans to safeguard the democratic values Odinga fought for throughout his political life.
“Let us make a vow that the rights Raila defended — human rights, democracy, and freedoms — will not be reversed. We must carry them forward, for those of us who remain and for those yet to be born. That is how we will honor his legacy as a national leader,” he said.
Injecting humor into an emotional tribute, Kenyatta recalled lighter moments with Odinga that drew laughter from mourners.
“Sometimes after work, when we were relaxing, we would take something small. And you’re laughing, but that ‘something small’ was just porridge or tea!” he said, smiling.
Reflecting on Odinga’s passing, Kenyatta said he believed his longtime political ally and rival had joined other great Kenyan leaders who preceded him.
“We used to wonder what the elders who’ve gone before us talk about when they meet — maybe politics. My brother, you’ve gone ahead of me. I know you’re already talking with them there. And it’s not that I’m in a hurry to join you — but when our time comes, I know you’ll be there to show us the way along those paths,” Kenyatta said.
He concluded with a heartfelt farewell: “Go well, my brother. May God have mercy on you, grant you peace, and comfort your family. We will remember you, continue your work, and stand by your family always.”
Thousands of mourners, including former heads of state, regional leaders, diplomats, and ordinary citizens, filled the stadium to honor Odinga’s memory. His courage, resilience, and decades-long contribution to Kenya’s democracy and national cohesion were celebrated as hallmarks of his leadership.
Odinga’s remains will be interred on Sunday at his ancestral home in Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County, about 60 kilometers west of Kisumu, in accordance with his wish to be buried within 72 hours.