President Ruto Hails Raila’s Legacy During Nyayo Stadium Memorial

President William Ruto on Friday delivered a moving tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga during a memorial service held at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi. The President reflected on Raila’s political journey and urged Kenyans to remain calm and united as the country prepares to give him a dignified state send-off.

“I have come a very long way with Baba. I never imagined he would one day stand with me to steady the nation. To you Baba, I owe you. I am truly and eternally grateful that our paths crossed and that we shared this journey together,” President Ruto said.

He praised Raila for his lifelong commitment to justice and unity, describing him as a leader with an unshakable vision for a better Kenya. “Those who worked closely with Raila Odinga know he was irrevocably stubborn in his vision for a just, prosperous and united Kenya — a nation where opportunities belong to all,” he stated.

Ruto also highlighted Raila’s selflessness and patriotism, noting that he often rose above personal interests for the good of the country. “Whenever the nation needed him to rise above self, he always did so unreservedly. Whenever Kenya needed reason, he became the voice of reason courageously,” he added.

The President expressed appreciation to leaders from around the world who attended the memorial or sent their condolences, acknowledging the global recognition of Raila’s influence. Ruto concluded by calling on Kenyans to honour Raila’s memory with peace and dignity.