Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged Kenyans to uphold the values championed by the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, calling on the nation to defend human rights, democracy, and justice. He spoke on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium during Raila’s State Funeral, addressing thousands of mourners and political leaders.

“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 tujihape ya kwamba hatutakubali kama wakenya haki za kibinadamu, demokrasia na mambo yale yote ambayo Raila alitetea. Hatutakubali yarudi nyuma,” Uhuru said.

Raila Odinga spent his life championing reforms that strengthened Kenya’s democracy. He fought for the passage of the 2010 Constitution, which expanded civil liberties, entrenched devolution, and promoted government accountability.

Raila consistently advocated for human rights, gender equality, and transparency in public service. He led campaigns against corruption and stood firm on inclusive governance, believing that every Kenyan, regardless of background, should have a voice in the nation’s decision-making.

His efforts extended to economic empowerment, education, and healthcare reforms aimed at improving the welfare of ordinary Kenyans. Through decades of political activism, Raila became a symbol of resilience, defending the rights of the marginalised and pushing for peaceful dialogue in times of tension.

Winnie shares father’s final moments

Winnie Odinga, Raila’s youngest daughter, also shared a deeply personal account of her father’s final moments. She revealed that Raila passed away in her arms while on a walk in India.

“The biggest part of me died on the 15th of October 2025. I was with him in India when he took his last breath. He died in my arms,” she said. Winnie refuted false reports circulating on social media about her father’s death, saying he passed away strong and dignified.

“But he did not die like people have been saying on social media. Every day he was waking up and walking. And every day he would do one round. The next day, he would push two rounds. That morning, he pushed to five rounds. He died strong, with dignity and with pride. And you must be proud of that,” she added.

Winnie also reflected on her father’s life lessons, highlighting his dedication to service, justice, and national unity. She urged Kenyans to continue his legacy by standing firm in defending the country’s democracy. At a personal level, she described Raila as a gentle, humorous father who loved storytelling and music.