At the state funeral of the late Raila Amolo Odinga on Friday, October 17, 2025, former President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered a heartfelt tribute that celebrated Raila’s unwavering commitment to justice, democracy, and human rights. Speaking before a packed Nyayo National Stadium, Kenyatta described Raila as a towering figure in Kenya’s political history, whose name would forever remain synonymous with the nation’s struggle for justice and democracy.
“When Kenya’s history is written, it cannot be written without Raila Odinga’s name being at the top,” Kenyatta said. “The history of human rights, the fight for democracy, and the journey to devolution—none of these can be told without his name appearing first.”
Kenyatta urged Kenyans to honor Raila’s legacy by upholding the democratic values, human rights, and freedoms he championed throughout his life. “Let us make a vow that the rights Raila defended; human rights, democracy, and freedoms will not be reversed,” he said. “We must carry them forward, for those of us who remain and for those yet to be born. That is how we will honor his legacy as a national leader.”
Injecting a touch of humor into his tribute, Kenyatta recalled lighter moments he shared with Raila, drawing laughter from mourners. “Sometimes after work, when we were relaxing, we would take something small,” he recounted. “And you’re laughing but that ‘something small’ was just porridge or tea!”
Reflecting on Raila’s passing, Kenyatta said he believed his longtime political ally and rival had joined other great Kenyan leaders who had already passed on. “We used to wonder what the elders who’ve gone before us talk about when they meet. Maybe politics,” he said. “My brother, you’ve gone ahead of me. I know you’re already talking with them there. And it’s not that I’m in a hurry to join you—but when our time comes, I know you’ll be there to show us the way along those paths.”
Kenyatta concluded his tribute with a message of comfort to the Odinga family, pledging his continued support. “Go well, my brother. May God have mercy on you, grant you peace, and comfort your family. We will remember you, continue your work, and stand by your family always,” he said.
The state funeral service brought together leaders from across the political divide, diplomats, and foreign dignitaries to honor the life and legacy of Raila Odinga, a man whose political journey spanned over four decades and whose influence transformed Kenya’s democratic landscape.
Image by K24 Digital
