Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has paid an emotional tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a towering statesman whose life and legacy will forever shape Kenya’s democracy.

In a heartfelt statement posted on his X on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Mudavadi said the country was mourning the loss of a statesman. “Today, our nation mourns the passing of a towering statesman, a gallant fighter for democracy, and a son of Kenya whose life was defined by courage, conviction, and an unyielding love for his country.”

Reflecting on their long political journey, Mudavadi recalled working alongside Raila through various stages of Kenya’s history, as allies and sometimes as political rivals.

“I have walked a long and eventful journey alongside Raila, at times as an ally, at times on different political paths, but always with deep mutual respect and a shared commitment to the ideals of a free, just, and prosperous Kenya,” he stated.

Mudavadi noted that throughout their political lives, whether in government or opposition, Raila remained a steadfast believer in the power of the people and in the promise of a united nation. “Through it all, his resilience, political acumen, and unwavering belief in the power of the people remained constant,” he said.

Describing Raila as the pre-eminent statesman of Kenya, Mudavadi said the former Prime Minister repeatedly put the country above his own political ambitions. “Raila was the pre-eminent statesman of Kenya, who sacrificed personal ambition for the nation, not once, not twice, but time and again. Whenever the soul of our nation stood on the brink of disintegration, he recalibrated his political path to safeguard its unity,” he added.

He hailed Raila’s role in shaping Kenya’s democratic space, saying his voice echoed hope to millions and his name will forever be synonymous with democracy, social justice, and human rights.

“His legacy will endure in the democratic gains he championed, the bridges he built, and the generations he inspired to believe in a better Kenya,” Mudavadi said.

Conveying condolences on behalf of his wife Tessie, his family, and the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Mudavadi expressed sympathy to Mama Ida Odinga, the Odinga family, and the entire nation.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace. May Kenya find strength in its enduring legacy,” he concluded.