Kenyan President William Ruto has declared a period of national mourning from 15th October 2025 until sunset on the day of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s interment. Flags across Kenya and at its diplomatic missions abroad will fly at half-mast, and Odinga will be accorded a state funeral with full military honors.
Born on 7th January 1945, Odinga passed away at the age of 80 in India, where he had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment.
In a statement mourning his political rival, President Ruto described Odinga as “the father of Kenya’s democracy, a tireless champion of social justice, and a renowned Pan-Africanist who played a defining role in shaping Kenya’s modern political history.”
“Raila Odinga’s name is etched indelibly in the annals of our Republic’s journey toward greater freedom, democracy, and prosperity,” President Ruto said. “He fearlessly spoke truth to power, championed reform, and inspired the nation toward higher ideals of nationhood. His contributions made him the most consequential figure in the Second Liberation of our Republic and the torchbearer of the 2010 Constitution.”
President Ruto further highlighted Odinga’s pivotal role in steering Kenya toward a new constitutional dispensation.
“Kenya is undeniably a much better place today because of his struggles, sacrifices, leadership, vision, and courage. Beyond politics, he was a devoted family man, an avid football enthusiast, and a friend to many,” Ruto added.
Ruto emphasized that Odinga’s optimism, strength, and humility epitomized the Kenyan spirit.
“His life was a testament to the enduring power of a vision grounded in democracy, justice, and unity. He refused the easy path when the right path was harder, leaving a legacy that inspires generations to come.”
Expressing personal grief, Ruto said, “I have lost a big brother, a mentor, a confidant, and a selfless patriot. Every time I sought wise counsel, Raila offered the truth, even when it was hard. He has left a solid foundation built on faith, on which we shall find our way forward.”
The President extended condolences to Odinga’s family, stating, “From my immediate family—Rachel and the children—we stand with Mama Ida, Rosemary, Raila Junior, Winnie, Senator Oburu, and the entire Odinga family during this moment of grief. I urge all Kenyans to join hands in celebrating the incredible legacy of this towering figure in our history.”
Regional Leaders and Parliament Join Mourning
Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, led Kenya’s Parliament in mourning Odinga, lauding his commitment to peace and conflict resolution. On 15th October, she tweeted: “We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Kenya as we mourn a leader whose influence reached far beyond the country’s borders, inspiring the entire African continent. His dedication to dialogue during political disagreements set a precedent for conflict resolution in the nation’s best interest.”
Deputy Speaker of Uganda’s Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, described Odinga as a distinguished statesman in East Africa who selflessly advanced regional peace, development, and diplomacy. “There are numerous instances when Raila quietly stepped in to help Uganda and Kenya maintain good relations,” Tayebwa said.
Members of Uganda’s Parliament, including Ibrahim Ssemujju, Elijah Okupa, Charles Bakabulindi, and Michael Mawanda, paid tribute to Odinga’s influence in Kenyan democracy and East African stability. They highlighted his role in mediating protests, including the Gen Z demonstrations last year, and his dedication to dialogue over confrontation.
National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu also mourned Odinga, calling him “a great statesman—an African giant who stood for freedom, liberty, and dignity.”
Opposition leader Joel Ssenyonyi echoed these sentiments, saying: “Odinga fought for Kenya’s democracy for most of his life. Though he never became President, his contributions to a better Kenya are indelible.”
Raila Odinga’s legacy as a reformer, Pan-Africanist, and guardian of democratic ideals will continue to resonate across Kenya, East Africa, and the world.
The Source Reports.
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