Kenya is in mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, a towering statesman whose life and legacy defined the country’s struggle for democracy, justice, and unity.
In an emotional address to the nation, President William Ruto confirmed the passing of the veteran opposition leader, describing him as “a giant of democracy, a fearless freedom fighter, and a tireless warrior of good governance.”
“We are blessed to live in a country that has been shaped by the will, the leadership, and the vision of the Right Hon. Raila Odinga,” the President said. “With an unshakable faith in the values of our country and the character of our people, Hon. Odinga fought for our democracy and led the path toward our new constitutional order.”
The President announced a seven-day period of national mourning, during which the national flag will fly at half-mast across Kenya and in all missions abroad. He also confirmed that Raila Odinga will be accorded a state funeral with full honours.
A funeral committee, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, has been established to coordinate the arrangements. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi will lead a delegation to India, where Odinga’s remains will be prepared for repatriation. The team includes Mama Ida Odinga, Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen and Hassan Joho, and several family members.
President Ruto paid a deeply personal tribute, describing Odinga as “a big brother, a mentor, a confidant, and a selfless patriot.”
“Every time I needed wise counsel, I turned to him time and again. He never once failed me and told me the truth every time, even when the truth was hard,” he said.
The President hailed Odinga as a peacemaker who always put the country first, noting that his optimism, humility, and courage reflected the true spirit of Kenya.
“He bore the scars of struggle with dignity, knowing that freedom was not free and that truth often demands sacrifice,” Ruto said. “His life was a testament to the enduring power of a vision grounded in democracy, justice, and unity.”
Odinga’s passing marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics. His decades-long career, from detention under one-party rule to his role in ushering in the 2010 Constitution, cemented his place as one of Africa’s most influential leaders.
“Raila Amolo Odinga’s name will forever be etched in the story of our Republic,” the President declared. “He was a colossus of Kenya’s modern politics, an indomitable warrior in our struggle for freedom and prosperity, and a statesman of boundless selflessness.”
In extending condolences to Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, President Ruto urged the nation to come together in unity and reflection.
“We have lost a beacon of courage, a tower of principle, and a father of our democracy. Let us come together, as he always urged us to do, not as rivals, but as brothers and sisters bound by a shared destiny.”
Odinga, often referred to as “Jakom” or “Baba”, leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to justice, inclusivity, and reform, values that shaped the Kenya of today.
“He has left us a solid foundation built on the rock of faith,” the President said. “It is on that foundation that we shall find our way forward, inspired by his example, his legacy, and his optimism that our future is great.”
As the nation lowers its flags, Kenyans from all walks of life remember Raila Odinga not just as a politician, but as the soul of a nation, a man who dared to dream of a freer, fairer, and more united Kenya.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace. May God comfort his family. May God bless Kenya.”
