Ruto Hails Raila as the Most Patriotic Leader in Kenya

President William Ruto has lauded opposition leader Raila Odinga as the “foremost patriotic leader” in Kenya, signaling a new chapter of unity and collaboration between the two erstwhile rivals.

Speaking at the opening of Langata Technical and Vocational College in Nairobi on Thursday, March 13, 2025, Ruto urged other Kenyan leaders to emulate Odinga’s commitment to national unity and transformation.

The president’s remarks come just days after he and Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), signed a landmark work agreement framework on Friday, March 7, 2025.

The pact aims to tackle pressing national issues, including youth empowerment, economic progress, and, most notably, fostering unity across Kenya’s diverse communities.

Addressing a vibrant crowd in Raila’s home turf in Lang’ata, Ruto emphasized the importance of collective leadership in realizing a cohesive and prosperous nation.

“You know that we have agreed with Raila. I must say this for the record: There has been no community in Kenya that are visitors. All communities in Kenya are in Kenya by God’s design,” he declared. “It’s my responsibility as the leader in Kenya to work with all leaders, patriotic leaders.”

Ruto singled out Odinga for his statesmanship, describing him as a trailblazer in prioritizing the country’s welfare over personal or electoral ambitions. “Raila is the foremost patriotic leader who has decided that the unity of Kenya, the progress of our nation, and the transformation of our nation are very important to all of us,” he said.

The president extended an olive branch to other political figures, urging them to “join forces” for the greater good. “All Kenyans, let us be patriotic to our nation—not for the benefit of leaders or the purpose of elections, but for the transformation of our nation.”

The event, attended by a cross-section of leaders from both the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and ODM, underscored the thawing of tensions between the two political camps.

Among those present were Langata MP Felix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, Ruaraka MP TJ Kajwang, Makadara MP George Aladwa, Mathare North MP Antony Oluoch, and nominated Senator Karen Nyamu.

During his third day of a tour of Nairobi, President Ruto unveiled a series of development projects including affordable housing aimed at transforming the Kibera Slums into a thriving and habitable estate.