President William Ruto has paid a moving and deeply personal tribute to the late Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as “the spirit of our democracy” and pledging to remain faithful to a shared vision they had for Kenya’s future.

In a message written in Parliament’s condolence book, Ruto reflected on the life and legacy of the former Prime Minister, who died on October 15 in Kerala, India, aged 80. His words blended grief with respect, acknowledging the long, and at times turbulent, relationship between the two men.

“Baba Agwambo, you became the spirit of our democracy through prison storms and betrayals, but you were faithful to the highest calling of being a Kenyan patriot,” the President wrote.

Ruto praised Raila’s lifelong commitment to justice and national unity, noting that his “sacrifice and contribution to our nation’s unity and prosperity will live in our hearts and inspire our actions.”

A Rival Remembered with Respect

Raila’s death has shaken the country, sparking an outpouring of tributes from citizens and world leaders alike. His decades-long fight for democracy — from his years in detention to his time as Prime Minister — remains etched in Kenya’s political history.

Yet, beyond politics, Ruto’s words hinted at a private understanding between the two men — one perhaps born out of mutual respect and shared concern for Kenya’s future.

“My elder brother, fare thee well,” Ruto added. “I will be faithful to what you and I agreed on the future of Kenya.”

He did not elaborate on what the agreement entailed, but his statement has stirred curiosity across the nation, suggesting a personal reconciliation that may have taken place away from public view.

Nation in Mourning

Following Raila’s death, Ruto declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday in his honour. Flags across the country have been flying at half-mast, and a seven-day mourning period is underway.

Raila’s body arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Thursday morning to full military honours before being taken to the Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi. Memorial services are planned in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Bondo, where he will be laid to rest beside his father, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.

The funeral arrangements have drawn thousands, with mourners continuing to stream in to pay their respects to the man who, for many, symbolised Kenya’s long and often painful march toward democracy.

A Shared Legacy

Ruto’s tribute captures a moment of national reflection — one that transcends political rivalries. For all their differences, both men came to represent different sides of the same struggle: the pursuit of a fairer, freer, and more united Kenya.

As Ruto wrote in closing:

“His story will live in our hearts and inspire our actions.”