NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto on Friday paid an emotional tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a towering statesman whose life was defined by sacrifice, courage, and an unyielding commitment to the nation.
Speaking during Raila’s funeral service at the Nyayo National Stadium, President Ruto thanked the Odinga family for “sharing him with the nation,” recalling how the veteran opposition leader stood with him during one of the most turbulent moments of his presidency.
“Across face and time, there are few exceptional persons who, when summoned by the call of history, rise to meet the challenges and opportunities of their time with indomitable vigour, absolute conviction, and unwavering valour,” Ruto said.
The President lauded Raila’s decision to work with his administration — a move credited with easing the youth-led anti-government protests that had gripped the country last year.
“The man in whose honour we gather here today — we salute you for the great statesman and patriot that you were,” he added.
Turning to the bereaved family, Ruto extended the country’s condolences to Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, and their children — Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie — as well as his elder brother, Senator Oburu Odinga.
“Kenya stands with you in this moment of sorrow. We share in your inexpressible grief, but we also share in your pride for your husband, your father, your brother, and your kin who belonged not only to you but also to us,” Ruto said. “Thank you for sharing him so generously with us as families and as a nation.”
Fondly referring to the late ODM leader by his popular nicknames — Tinga, Jakom, Woud Mary, Woud Ping, and Baba — Ruto described Raila as a man of immense political stature and generosity of spirit.
“Amolo may no longer walk with us, but his spirit lives within every Kenyan and every African,” the President remarked. “Such was the depth of his influence and impact that even in his absence, his presence endures.”
Ruto reflected on their decades-long political journey — from their days in the Orange Democratic Movement’s Pentagon team, to fierce rivalry in successive elections, and later cooperation in government.
“We have been both collaborators and competitors, friends and rivals, but always patriotic Kenyans united by a dream greater than ourselves — a dream of a united motherland,” Ruto said.“I owe you, Baba, and I’m truly and eternally grateful that our paths crossed.”
He expressed confidence that history would remember Raila kindly, saying his decisions were often guided by the greater good rather than personal ambition.
“Whenever the nation needed him to rise above self, he always did — unreservedly,” Ruto said.
Raila, who died at the age of 80 while receiving treatment in India, will be laid to rest on Sunday at his home in Bondo, Siaya County.
Public viewing of his body is scheduled for Saturday at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu.
