This Year’s Mashujaa Celebration Sang Raila’s Legacy

Kenya marked this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations with a solemn tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, whose legacy dominated speeches and reflections at the national event held at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County. President William Ruto led the commemorations attended by several dignitaries, including Senegal President Bassirou Faye, top government officials, and leaders from across the political divide.

President Ruto said it was both “fitting and worthy” to dedicate the 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations to the memory of Raila Odinga, describing him as a national hero whose contribution to Kenya’s political and democratic journey will never be forgotten. He reminded Kenyans that as the nation continues to observe seven days of mourning, the moment should inspire unity and reflection on the values of courage, patriotism, and service that defined Odinga’s life.

The President further defended Odinga’s decision to work with his administration in recent years, saying that those who criticized “Baba” for cooperating with the government failed to understand his selfless desire for national stability.

“Those who faulted him simply forget, or just don’t care, that there are countries in our region that were once stable but later descended into turmoil and disorder. For Agwambo, the specter of a failed nation was too grave to contemplate,” Ruto said.

Kitui Governor Julius Malombe on the other hand, took his chance to outpour praises on Odinga as an “outstanding Shujaa” whose lifelong struggle for justice and equality left an indelible mark on Kenya’s history.

He hailed the former Prime Minister for championing multiparty democracy, leading constitutional reforms, and defending devolution. Malombe added that Odinga’s advocacy for inclusive governance, rule of law, and social justice cemented his place among the country’s most celebrated heroes.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also paid tribute to Odinga, describing him as “one of the greatest Kenyans to ever walk our land.” He urged Kenyans to honour not only Odinga but also all freedom fighters who defended the nation’s sovereignty and expanded its democratic space.

As the celebrations concluded, the atmosphere at Ithookwe Stadium remained both reflective and patriotic, with leaders and citizens alike celebrating Raila Odinga’s towering legacy as a freedom fighter, reformist, and unifying figure in Kenya’s history.