I Have Lost a Big Brother, a Mentor: President Ruto Mourns Raila Odinga

President William Ruto has paid a deeply personal and emotional tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a “big brother, mentor, confidant, and selfless patriot” whose legacy will forever shape Kenya’s history.

In a moving eulogy released from State House following the announcement of Raila’s death, President Ruto lauded the late opposition leader as a man who “fought for democracy with conviction, bore the scars of struggle with dignity, and always put the country first.”

“We are blessed to live in a country that has been shaped by the will, leadership, and vision of the Right Hon. Raila Odinga,” the President said. “He had unshakable faith in the values of our nation and the character of our people.”

Ruto, who declared seven days of national mourning and ordered flags to fly at half-mast, said Raila’s passing had left a deep void in the nation and in his personal life.

“I have lost a big brother, a mentor, a confidant, and a selfless patriot. Every time I needed wise counsel, I turned to him time and again. He never once failed me and told me the truth every time, even when the truth was hard,” he said.

Calling Raila “a quintessential progressive and reformer,” Ruto praised his lifelong fight for justice, human rights, and inclusivity, noting that his courage and grace had defined Kenya’s democratic journey.

“There can be no doubt that Hon. Raila Odinga was the most significant leader of our democratic experiment. His voice, sometimes fiery, sometimes soft, always echoed with purpose,” Ruto said.

The President also reflected on Raila’s role as a peacemaker and a visionary who refused to take the easy path when the right path was harder.

“His life was a testament to the enduring power of a vision grounded in democracy, justice, and unity. He always believed our best days were ahead,” he said.

Ruto extended heartfelt condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, their children, and the entire Odinga family on behalf of his wife, First Lady Rachel Ruto, and their children.

“We stand with them in this moment of grief,” he affirmed. “Above all, I urge all Kenyans to join hands as we celebrate the incredible legacy of this towering figure in our history.”

As the nation prepares to bid farewell to the man many called “Baba,” Ruto said Kenya must now look to the future through the lens of Raila’s example — one of courage, humility, and hope.

“He has left us a solid foundation built on the rock of faith. It is on that foundation that we shall find our way forward, inspired by his legacy and optimism that our future is great.”

Raila Odinga, who passed away in India earlier this morning, will be accorded a state funeral.

His death has plunged the nation into mourning, with tributes pouring in from leaders across the political divide and around the world.