Former President Uhuru Kenyatta moved thousands of mourners gathered at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, October 17, 2025, with a heartfelt tribute to the late Raila Odinga a eulogy that stood out for its warmth, wit, and emotional depth.
Uhuru’s address offered a rare glimpse into his private friendship with Raila, recalling the candid conversations they shared about leadership, legacy, and mortality. He spoke of quiet evenings after long working days, where the two would unwind over “a small refreshment” humorously clarifying to the crowd that he meant porridge and tea to exchange ideas about politics and the lessons of history.
“Sometimes after work, we would relax a little and have a small refreshment. Why are you laughing? I’m talking about porridge and tea. But when we were working, we would talk seriously,” Uhuru told the crowd, drawing laughter and applause.
He described Raila as a man of deep curiosity and reflection, who constantly sought to understand the minds of the leaders who came before him including Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Jomo Kenyatta, and Julius Nyerere. “We often wondered what the elders who went before us, like Jaramogi, Jomo, and Mwalimu Nyerere, used to discuss. Maybe they talked politics like us, or perhaps they’re watching us now and laughing at our little foolishness,” he said.
Uhuru framed Raila’s passing as part of the ongoing story of Kenya’s leadership and democracy, urging Kenyans to reflect on his legacy with gratitude rather than despair. In a moment that drew one of the day’s loudest ovations, he prayed for Raila’s soul and spoke directly to his departed comrade:
“Raila was always eager to understand. Now, my brother, you’ve gone ahead of me. I imagine you talking with them there. I’m not in a hurry to join you I’ll take my time. But when that time comes, I trust we’ll meet again. May God grant you mercy, rest you in peace, and welcome you among your peers.”
The emotional tribute underscored the respect and affection shared between the two former leaders, earning Kenyatta prolonged applause from the packed stadium.
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister (2008–2013), passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Kerala, India, following a cardiac arrest at the age of 80. His body was flown home the following day to a massive reception at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, prompting security officials to alter the planned state protocol due to the overwhelming crowds.
The public viewing was shifted from Parliament Buildings to Kasarani Stadium to accommodate mourners, while the state funeral at Nyayo Stadium featured full military honors and tributes from both local and international dignitaries.
Raila will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his family home in Bondo, Siaya County, beside his late mother, Mary Odhiambo Odinga fulfilling his final wish to rest among his kin.
