President William Ruto has conveyed the news of Raila Odinga’s demise to the nation.

Ruto, in a sombre address to the nation on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, while flanked by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Raila’s elder brother Oburu Oginga, referred to Raila as the nation’s foremost statesman.

The President declared seven days of national mourning in honour of the late opposition leader, directing that flags fly at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad.

Watch: End of an era as Raila Odinga passes away

Raila’s passing

“Fellow citizens, it is with deep sorrow that I inform the nation of the passing of Rt Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, our former Prime Minister and Kenya’s foremost statesman and one of Africa’s greatest sons,” he said.

“Kenya, Africa, and the world mourn the passing of giants of democracy and tireless warriors of good governance,” he said.

Ruto stated that Raila’s legacy in Kenya will forever remain etched in the history of the nation for his decade-long pursuit of justice and equity.

“Raila’s name will be forever etched in the story of our republic. A story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, rule of law, hope, and our pursuit of excellence,” he added.

Ruto extended his deepest condolences to Mama Ida and his entire Raila family, led by Oburu Oginga.

He implored the country to unite in the face of the trying time of bereavement.

Call for unity

“As we mourn, I call on all Kenyans to reflect on his towering legacy and lessons impacted by Raila’s work, ideas and examples. In a political career spanning decades, Raila offered a compelling model of putting country before his personal interest,” he concluded.

The address followed after the head of state joined mourners at Raila’s Karen home on Wednesday, October 15, morning, as news of the veteran opposition leader’s death filtered through.

The Head of State arrived at the Odinga residence in Nairobi to console the bereaved family. He was received by Mama Ida Odinga, who was accompanied by her daughters Rosemary and Winnie.

Raila Odinga’s death

The President was seen comforting the widow and family members during the emotional visit.

Ruto was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and several ODM leaders, including Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and other senior figures from both government and opposition were also present.

The mood at the residence was somber. Many leaders stood quietly, hands on their heads, while others sat in silence, visibly struggling to come to terms with the loss.