President William Ruto has hailed Raila Odinga’s legacy in shaping the nation, describing him as a champion of a movement.

In a passionate tribute on Friday, October 17,2025, at the Nyayo National Stadium during Raila’s state funeral, Ruto expressed delight that he crossed paths with the departed leader.

Reflecting on a checkered career that saw him compete and collaborate with the ODM leader, the president noted that their dream for a united motherland, however, overrode their individual interest, resulting in coming together as principals under the broad-based government.

“We gather here today not just to mourn the passing of Baba but to celebrate his purpose and vision. He lived and charged along with us as a movement; a movement for change, inclusivity, and one for a better Kenya,” he stated.

“Raila gave more to this country than anyone could give. He bore the scars of his struggle with dignity and calm poise and turned pain into purpose,” he added.

Uhuru’s tribute

The president joined his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, in interceding for the departed leader, to rest well after his toil for the nation.

“He has finished his race, and it is our solemn prayer that the soil of the land that he so tirelessly fought for shall embrace him with grace and that the people for whom he fought shall carry his dream forward,” he added.

In his tribute, former President Uhuru equally recounted how Raila cherished peace and longed to see Kenyans unite.

The former president imploring the nation to uphold the values championed by the late former Prime Minister.

“Wenzangu nawaambia hivi. Tunawakumbuka kina mzee Jomo Kenyatta na Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Kwa kutetea uhuru wananchi yetu. Na kila mara tukiimba wimbo wa taifa tunasema atalinda uhuru yetu damu yetu na jasho yetu. Leo hii tukiwa tunaaga baba yetu Raila Amolo Odinga, nataka pia tuaape ya kwamba hatutakubali kama wakenya haki za kibinadamu, demokrasia na mambo yale yote ambayo Raila alitetea. Hatutakubali yarudi nyuma,” Uhuru said.