Post: President Ruto Leads National Farewell for Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga

Nairobi: President William Ruto on Friday led thousands of Kenyans and international dignitaries in a national funeral service to honor the late former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga, at Nyayo National Stadium.According to Kenya News Agency, President Ruto praised Odinga as a transformative statesman whose dedication to democracy and justice has significantly impacted Kenya and the African continent. He emphasized Odinga's relentless pursuit of fairness and inclusivity, which has left a lasting legacy. Ruto said, "Kenya, in this moment of sorrow, shares in your inexpressible grief; he may no longer walk with us, but his spirit lives within every Kenyan and every African."The service, attended by leaders from various political backgrounds and representatives of the international community, was marked by hymns, interfaith prayers, and tributes celebrating Odinga's contributions to Kenya's democratic growth. Mama Ida Odinga, the widow of the late leader, delivered an emotional tribute, reflecting on the ir 52-year journey together and urging Kenyans to maintain peace and unity in honor of his legacy. She said, "We need peace in our homes and in our nation."Dr. Oburu Oginga, Raila's elder brother, shared personal memories and revealed the poignant fact that the opposition leader passed away on October 15, coinciding with his own birthday. He shared anecdotes from their childhood, highlighting the bond they shared. "Raila was more than a brother to me. He was my friend, my age mate, my advisor, and my confidant," he said.Winnie Odinga, Raila's daughter, spoke about her father's profound influence, describing him as "light, steady, healing, and deeply human." She emphasized his resilience and commitment to justice, even in challenging times. "He taught me that justice must be pursued even when the path is lonely," she said.Raila Odinga Junior, the late leader's son, portrayed his father as a man of integrity whose principles often came at a significant personal cost. "My father was many things to many peo ple, but to us, he was simply dad," he stated, pledging to carry forward his father's ideals.Messages of condolence and solidarity flowed in from around the globe, with Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan describing Odinga as "a visionary whose courage and influence transcended borders." The African Union and other organizations hailed him as "a pillar of democracy and human rights."As the ceremony concluded, clergy from various faiths led prayers for the nation, and the National Anthem was played in Odinga's honor. The crowd observed a moment of silence before singing songs of unity and hope, including Raila's favorite, "Jamaica Farewell," in a moving farewell to the national figure.