Ruto vows to uphold Raila’s democratic ideals
By Kenneth Mwenda, October 20, 2025President William Ruto has pledged to continue championing the causes that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga held most dear, including democracy, food security, and industrial growth.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui on Monday, October 20, 2025, Ruto said Raila’s legacy would continue to guide the country’s development path. He noted that honouring Raila’s vision meant turning his lifelong principles into action.
“In memory of Hon. Odinga, I pledged to champion the causes he held most dear: a democratic culture, strengthening food security, advancing value addition, agro-processing and industrialisation, expanding energy access, and driving infrastructure development,” Ruto said in a post on X.
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The President added that these priorities remain central to Kenya’s collective journey towards unity and prosperity.
“These priorities remain central to our collective journey towards a more prosperous and united Kenya,” he stated.
Raila honoured as a national hero
During the same ceremony, Ruto posthumously conferred upon Raila the Chief of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.), the country’s highest national honour. The award recognises Raila’s courage, endurance, and lifelong dedication to democracy and public service.
“The government and people of Kenya inscribe Hon Raila Odinga’s name among the foremost of our heroes, under the public seal of the Republic,” Ruto said, describing the late leader as a towering patriot whose sacrifices shaped Kenya’s democratic path.
The honour, announced through a special gazette notice, detailed Raila’s long service to the nation, from his years as a lecturer and parliamentarian to his role as Prime Minister and opposition leader. It highlighted his contribution to good governance, Pan-Africanism, and his belief in national unity.
Ruto said Raila’s life and struggles reflected the spirit of Mashujaa Day, a celebration of courage, sacrifice, and service.
The honour and Ruto’s pledge came a day after Raila was buried at his family home in Bondo, Siaya County, in a state funeral attended by thousands of mourners, including past and current leaders.