Kwaheri Baba: Ruto hails Raila as a rare patriot who rose above self

President William Ruto on Friday led Kenyans and world leaders in paying tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a reformist and patriot whose courage, conviction, and sacrifice transformed Kenya’s democratic journey.

Speaking during the State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium, Dr Ruto said Odinga was a statesman who consistently rose above personal interest to steady the nation through defining moments.

“He belonged to that rare, irrepressible breed whose influence will continue to live within us and across Africa,” said Dr Ruto.

The President described Odinga as a reformer, conciliator, and moral compass, whose leadership reflected resilience and principle rather than pursuit of power.

He praised the late opposition leader for choosing peace and unity whenever the nation faced division.

“Whenever Kenya needed a hand of reconciliation, he offered it without hesitation,” said Dr Ruto.

“He stood firm in his belief that justice, peace, and prosperity must belong to all.”

Reflecting on their political journey, Dr Ruto said his relationship with Odinga was one of both partnership and rivalry, but always anchored in shared patriotism and a belief in dialogue.

He credited him for helping shape Kenya’s political transitions and for teaching that leadership must serve the nation, not the self.

“He helped anchor my own leadership by insisting that Kenya must always be bigger than any of us,” Dr Ruto told mourners.

Dr Ruto described Odinga’s endurance--through detention, exile, and years of political struggle--as a mark of patriotism and courage.

He said the former Prime Minister bore the scars of that struggle with grace and dignity, never losing faith in Kenya’s democratic promise.

The President extended heartfelt condolences to the widow Ida Odinga and the Odinga family in entirety, acknowledging their decades of sacrifice.

“Kenya stands with you in this moment of sorrow. Baba’s spirit endures even in his absence,” said Dr Ruto.

He urged Kenyans to carry forward Odinga’s dream of an inclusive and just nation, saying the ODM leader had finished his race and kept the faith.

“May the land he served embrace him with grace, and may the people he fought for safeguard his legacy,” he said.

Dr Ruto closed his tribute with a poetic reflection, likening Odinga to a mighty Bongu tree--deeply rooted, unyielding, and sheltering generations under its shade.

“Its fall leaves the nation asking where another like him will rise,” said the President, drawing a long applause from the mourners.

As the military band played solemn hymns and foreign dignitaries stood in silence, the country united in honouring a man whose journey mirrored Kenya’s own--full of struggle, faith, and relentless hope for a better tomorrow.