President William Ruto has showered praises on former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, recognizing his leadership and support.

Speaking on Saturday, April 12, 2025, during the funeral ceremony of George Oduor, Raila’s long-serving bodyguard, Ruto openly expressed his admiration and appreciation for the ODM leader’s decision to stand with him.

The head of state repeatedly referred to Odinga as Prime Minister, having retired from the title over 12 years ago.

Ruto reflected on his long history with Raila, recounting moments from their political journey that saw them once work together, then become rivals, and now, stand side by side once again.

“I have come a long way with Honourable Raila Odinga. And I want to say this, I did not know that the man I stood by and gave my all at a moment in my life, we would eventually become competitors and that he would eventually come and anchor my leadership,” Ruto said.

Adding;

“And so, the Honourable Prime Minister, I want to tell you, that I am truly grateful. I want to tell you, that just the same way I stood with you when you needed a man to, is the way you have stood with me.”

The president further emphasized that Raila’s support is not based on personal gain but driven by patriotism and the desire to see Kenya progress.

“When Baba came to stand with me, it wasn’t about him or his interests, it was about the greater good of Kenya. History is going to judge the Honourable Raila Odinga fairly; whenever there is an opportunity to stand for the nation, he has always stood for the nation. I am very, very proud that our paths crossed, and we have come to this journey together,” he added.

Raila, Ruto MoU

The public display of affection and political appreciation comes just over a month after a major development that reshaped the country’s political dynamics. On March 7, 2025, President Ruto and Raila Odinga signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

The agreement between Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) signalled a new chapter of collaborative governance in Kenya.

Both leaders clarified that their partnership was not a political coalition but a strategic alliance focused on promoting national unity, stability, and development.

Their handshake and MoU signing have since been met with mixed reactions across the political divide.