NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has paid a deeply emotional tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as “the spirit of our democracy” and pledging to uphold their shared vision for Kenya’s future.
Writing in the condolence book at Parliament Buildings, Ruto mourned Raila’s passing with words that blended personal reflection with national grief.
The President said Raila’s lifelong fight for freedom, justice, and unity had permanently shaped Kenya’s democratic identity.
“Baba Agwambo, you became the spirit of our democracy through prison storms and betrayals, but you were faithful to the highest calling of being a Kenyan patriot,” Ruto wrote.
Raila Odinga, 80, died on October 15 while undergoing treatment at an Ayurvedic hospital in Kerala, India.
The government has declared a seven-day period of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across the country.
A state funeral is being organized, and Friday, October 17, has been declared a public holiday in his honor.
In his tribute, President Ruto reflected on Raila’s decades-long struggle for democracy—his detentions, political rivalries, and tireless pursuit of national unity.
“Your sacrifice and contribution to our nation’s unity and prosperity will live in our hearts and inspire our actions,” he said.
In a particularly poignant passage, Ruto hinted at a personal understanding shared between the two leaders despite their fierce political differences.
“My elder brother, fare thee well. I will be faithful to what you and I agreed on the future of Kenya,” he wrote.
Ruto’s message struck a conciliatory tone, suggesting a quiet bond that transcended years of political tension between Kenya Kwanza and Azimio la Umoja.
The President’s tribute comes as condolences pour in from across the world, with global leaders, African statesmen, and Kenyans at home and abroad paying homage to Raila’s legacy as a reformist and statesman.
Raila’s body arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Wednesday, received with full military honors before being taken to Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi.
Memorial services are planned in Nairobi, Kisumu, and his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, where he will be buried beside his father and Kenya’s first vice president, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
“His story will live in our hearts and inspire our actions,” Ruto concluded in his message.
