President William Ruto has paid a moving tribute to the late opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, describing him as a “true patriot and statesman” whose lifelong service profoundly shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
In his statement, President Ruto highlighted Raila’s enduring legacy in public service, noting his fifteen years as the Member of Parliament for Langata Constituency, where he served with “unwavering dedication and distinction.”
“For fifteen years, our departed leader, the Right Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga, served the people of Langata Constituency with unwavering dedication and distinction as their Member of Parliament,” Ruto said.
The President further acknowledged Odinga’s pivotal role in Kenya’s reform movement, particularly his instrumental contribution to the making of the 2010 Constitution during his tenure as Prime Minister.
“He was a tireless champion of justice, democracy, and progress — playing a pivotal role in shaping some of the most consequential laws in our Republic’s history,” the President remarked.
Ruto noted that allowing the former Prime Minister to lie-in-state at Parliament Buildings was “most fitting,” as it offers an opportunity for the three arms of government — the Executive, Parliament, and the Judiciary — alongside the entire nation, to honour “the life and legacy of a true patriot and statesman.”
