Uhuru shares a final moving tribute before Raila is laid to rest
By Faith Lagat, October 19, 2025Former President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered an emotional tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga during his state funeral at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOST) in Bondo, Siaya County.
Addressing thousands of mourners on October 19, 2025, Uhuru reflected on Raila’s life of service, describing him as a courageous leader whose sacrifice shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
A brother and National unifier
Uhuru recalled Raila’s pivotal role in national unity, stating, “Raila alisaidia sana kuunganisha hii nchi. Jakom, we will miss you as a brother, your thoughtfulness, your wisdom, and your laughter. Fare thee well, my friend.” His voice wavered as he thanked the people of Siaya for sharing Raila with Kenya and Africa.
“To our brothers and sisters from Bondo and Siaya, thank you for giving us your son. He did not serve Kenya alone, but Africa,” he said.
He expressed deep condolences to Raila’s family and the ODM fraternity. Uhuru pledged to stand by them and continue Raila’s legacy. “Yangu mimi ni kusema ndugu yangu uende vema. Nakuombea kwa Mwenyezi Mungu akurehemu. Yale ambayo umeanzisha tutaendelea nayo. Familia yako saa imekuwa yetu. Tutaendelea kuwalinda na kusimama nao kwa wakati wote. Lala salama ndugu na Mungu apatie familia yako nguvu,” he said.
Tribute to Raila’s character and legacy
Uhuru acknowledged the unwavering support of Raila’s wife, Ida and their children, noting, “Raila hangeweza kutenda aliyotenda kama hangekuwa na familia yake ya Mama Ida na watoto wake. Tunashukuru sana Wakenya pia kwa kutupatia kiongozi kama Raila.”
He highlighted Raila’s lifelong pursuit of peace and democracy. “Today, the nation has lost a leader whose history of democracy cannot be written without his name being at the forefront. The history of human rights advocacy cannot be written without Raila’s name being at the forefront,” he added.
A call to defend his ideals
Uhuru urged Kenyans to honour Raila’s memory by upholding the principles he championed. “Tunawakumbuka kina mzee Jomo Kenyatta na Jaramogi Oginga Odinga kwa kutetea uhuru wananchi 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,” he said.
He reflected on their shared political journey and described Raila as a friend, brother, and leader whose courage and resilience will continue to inspire future generations. “We shall miss you as a friend, a brother, and a leader of this nation. We shall miss your insights, your thoughtfulness, your wisdom, and your laughter,” he stated.
“Fare thee well, my ndugu. Fare thee well, my friend. Mungu akubariki na akulinde,” he concluded.