Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has joined Kenyans in mourning the late ODM leader Raila Odinga, describing him as a towering statesman and a personal friend.
In his message on Wednesday, October 15, Uhuru reflected on their shared history, marked by rivalry, reconciliation, and unity of purpose.
He said the news of Raila’s passing had left a deep void in the country and in his own heart.
“My heart is heavy, and my spirit is burdened with a grief that is both profound and deeply personal. The news of Raila’s passing has left a silence that echoes across our nation, a silence where once there was a voice of thunder and conviction,” he said.
Uhuru went on to describe Raila as a major influence in his personal and political life, acknowledging their complicated yet meaningful relationship over the years.
“To me, Raila was more than a political colleague; he was a defining part of my own journey, in public service and in life. Raila and I were navigators on opposing currents, charting different courses for the nation we both loved.
“At some point along that journey, we became political opponents and often, the weight of that competition felt immense,” he continued.
Uhuru reflected on the transformation of their relationship after the historic 2018 ‘handshake,’ which symbolized reconciliation and national healing.
“In the recent years, a different bond was forged; one of respect, of shared patriotism, and a common desire to see a united Kenya. That journey from fierce political opponents to partners in the pursuit of “Handshake” unity taught me the true measure of the man.
“I saw firsthand his unwavering passion for this country, his deep-seated belief in justice, and his incredible capacity to think beyond personal ambition for the sake of national peace. He was a formidable opponent, but he was an even more invaluable ally in the cause of reconciliation,” he added.
Concluding his message, Uhuru described Raila as a friend and a brother whose spirit and belief in Kenya would remain unmatched.
“I have lost a friend and a brother. I will miss our conversations sometimes challenging, always insightful and the fire of belief that never left his eyes.
“To Mama Ida, the children, and the entire Odinga family, I extend my deepest, most heartfelt condolences. You have shared Baba with Kenya for a lifetime, and we mourn with you. We have lost a father to the nation, a steadfast champion for the people, and a true son of Kenya,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, KANU Chairman Gideon Moi also paid tribute to Raila, describing him as the most consequential political figure of his generation.
He expressed that his legacy will endure through Kenya’s democratic progress.
“It is a profoundly sad moment for our nation following the passing of Kenya’s former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, earlier today. Indeed, Mr. Odinga was the most consequential political figure of our time.
“Throughout his distinguished career, as a Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister, and Prime Minister, he steered some of the most transformative reforms that reshaped the social and political fabric of our country,” he said.
Moi praised Raila’s leadership and lifelong dedication to justice and democracy, noting that his choices were often guided by what was right, not what was easy.
“What will forever define Hon. Odinga’s legacy was his untiring selflessness. He consistently placed the nation above self and all else. He made decisions not because they were popular or convenient, but because they were right.
“He was a man of firm conviction, who believed that a country can only prosper when constitutionalism and the rule of law precede any other ambition. Yet, he was pragmatic enough to build consensus when the country’s unity and progress demanded it,” he added.
Moi further noted that Raila was not just a political ally but also a personal friend and mentor whose wisdom and counsel would be deeply missed.
“On a personal level, Hon. Odinga was my friend and confidant; a leader whose wisdom, generosity, and counsel I deeply cherished. Therefore, to attempt to eulogize the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga is to accept the inadequacy of words to capture the depth of his impact, his sacrifices, and his towering influence on our democracy. We have lost a leader, mentor, patriot, and father to many,” he further said.
In his message, Moi extended condolences to the Odinga family and affirmed the KANU fraternity’s solidarity with them during this difficult time.
“On behalf of the entire Moi family and the KANU fraternity, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his beloved wife, Mama Ida Odinga, his children, Rosemary, Winnie, and Junior, as well as his brother, Dr. Oburu Odinga, during this moment of profound sorrow.
“We stand with them in prayer and solidarity, trusting that God will grant them strength and comfort to bear this great loss,” he concluded.
At the same time, tributes have also poured in from across the world, including from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who described Raila as a cherished friend of India and a great admirer of its culture and traditions.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and former Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr. Raila Odinga. He was a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India. I had the privilege of knowing him closely since my days as Chief Minister of Gujarat and our association continued over the years,” he said.
Modi highlighted Raila’s affection for India and his efforts to strengthen ties between the two nations.
“He had a special affection for India, our culture, values and ancient wisdom. This was reflected in his efforts to strengthen India-Kenya ties. He particularly admired Ayurveda and traditional medicine systems of India, having witnessed their positive impact on his daughter’s health. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and to the people of Kenya in this hour of grief,” he added.
Raila passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 80.
He reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk at an Ayurvedic treatment facility in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, India.
Raila was rushed to a private hospital in Koothattukulam, where doctors pronounced him dead at 7:22 a.m.
