Kenyan President William Ruto has paid tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing the late veteran politician as a guiding figure in Kenya’s democratic journey and a steadfast advocate for unity and justice.
Speaking during Odinga’s State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Friday, Ruto reflected on his long political journey alongside Odinga, affectionately known as “Baba,” and acknowledged the pivotal role the opposition icon played in steering the nation during challenging times.
“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.
He further lauded Odinga’s unwavering commitment to the country: “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.”
Recalling Odinga’s political vision, Ruto 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.”
Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s opposition politics, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80 while receiving medical treatment in India for an undisclosed illness.
Fondly referred to as “Baba” by his supporters, his death marks the end of an era for a man who championed multi-party democracy and tirelessly fought for the rights of ordinary Kenyans.
Despite losing five presidential elections—including his most recent bid in 2022—Odinga remained central to Kenya’s political landscape.
He came closest to the presidency in 2008, when he served as Prime Minister in a coalition government until 2013 following a disputed election.
Throughout his career, he passionately defended electoral justice, frequently alleging vote manipulation, and advocated for reforms to strengthen democracy.
Mourners at Nyayo Stadium paid tribute to Odinga with branches and palm fronds, traditional symbols of grief among the Luo community, to which he belonged.
The State Funeral comes amid seven days of official national mourning before Odinga is laid to rest at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, about 60km west of Kisumu, on Sunday.
According to the family, it was his wish to be buried within the shortest time possible, ideally within 72 hours.
His passing leaves a significant void in Kenya’s opposition politics as the nation prepares for the 2027 elections.