President William Ruto has led the nation in mourning the death of Azimio leader Raila Odinga, describing him as “a beacon of courage, a tower of principle, and a father of our democracy.”
In a heartfelt message from State House, Nairobi, President Ruto said Raila’s passing marks the end of an era in Kenya’s political history, urging citizens to unite in honour of his legacy.
“Let us come together, as he always urged us to do, not as rivals, but as brothers and sisters bound by a shared destiny,” Ruto said. “As we mourn, I call on all Kenyans to reflect on his towering legacy and the lessons impacted by Raila Odinga’s life, work, ideas, and example.”
The President paid glowing tribute to Raila, calling him “a once-in-a-generation leader” whose ideals went beyond politics and whose influence will continue shaping Kenya’s destiny.
“Raila Odinga’s name will forever be etched in the story of our republic — a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, rule of law, hope, and our pursuit for excellence,” Ruto stated. “He championed reforms that gave birth to the rights and freedoms we hold dear.”
President Ruto described Raila as a “patriot of uncommon courage, a pan-Africanist, and a unifier who sought peace and unity above power and self-gain.”
He added that Odinga’s conviction, vision, and service to the people will remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come.
“In his passing, we have lost a giant who towered for decades over our democratic landscape — an unceasing servant of the people who gave his all for the promise of a better Kenya,” Ruto said.
