My Heart Is Heavy With a Grief That Is Deeply Personal: Uhuru Eulogizes Raila

Nairobi, Kenya – October 17, 2025 – In a poignant tribute that captured the complex tapestry of Kenyan politics, former President Uhuru Kenyatta mourned the loss of Raila Odinga, calling him a “friend and a brother” whose passing has left an indelible void in the nation’s heart.

Odinga, the veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, died on October 15 at the age of 80 in a hospital in Kerala, India, from a heart attack.

His state funeral today at Nyayo National Stadium drew thousands of mourners, regional leaders, and dignitaries, underscoring his enduring legacy as a champion of democracy and justice.

Kenyatta’s eulogy reflected on their journey from fierce rivals to allies in national reconciliation.

“My heart is heavy, and my spirit is burdened with a grief that is both profound and deeply personal,” Kenyatta stated.

“The news of Raila’s passing has left a silence that echoes across our nation, a silence where once there was a voice of thunder and conviction.”

He highlighted their shared history, noting how Odinga, affectionately known as “Baba,” challenged him to refine his ideas during their political battles.

“Raila and I were navigators on opposing currents, charting different courses for the nation we both loved,” Kenyatta said.

Yet, in recent years, their relationship evolved through the famous 2018 “Handshake,” a symbol of unity that bridged ethnic and political divides.

“That journey from fierce political opponents to partners in the pursuit of unity taught me the true measure of the man,” he added, praising Odinga’s “unwavering passion for this country” and his role in fostering peace.

Odinga’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum.

President William Ruto, Odinga’s longtime rival, described him as a “towering figure” in Kenyan politics.

At the funeral, attended by heads of state including Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, mourners waved Kenyan flags and held portraits of Odinga, chanting slogans in his honor.

However, the event was marred by clashes, with police firing tear gas and live rounds at crowds, resulting in at least three deaths.

Family members shared intimate details of Odinga’s final moments.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta pays last respect to Raila Odinga lying in state.

His daughter, Winnie Odinga, revealed that he passed away in her arms during a morning walk in India, after gradually regaining strength post-treatment.

“He died strong, with dignity and pride,” she said, dismissing social media speculation about his cause of death.

Odinga’s brother, Senator Oburu Oginga, spoke of their close bond, likening them to twins and noting the tragic coincidence that Raila died on Oburu’s birthday.

Odinga’s political career spanned decades, from his early days as a detainee under authoritarian rule to his five unsuccessful presidential bids.

He played a pivotal role in Kenya’s transition to multi-party democracy and served as Prime Minister in a power-sharing government from 2008 to 2013. His body arrived in Nairobi yesterday and lay in state at Parliament before today’s ceremonies.

In his eulogy, Kenyatta extended condolences to Odinga’s wife, Ida, and their family, acknowledging their sacrifice in sharing “Baba” with the nation.

“His legacy is not just in the political battles he fought, but in the peace he helped build,” he concluded. “Rest in peace, my friend. Your work here is done, but your echo will never fade.”

As Kenya reflects on Odinga’s contributions, his death marks the end of an era, but his influence on the fight for equity and unity endures.