President William Ruto has said the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s vision for Kenya went beyond personal ambition, describing him as a leader driven by the desire to see the country achieve its full potential.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations, President Ruto said Raila’s political journey was never about becoming President but about ensuring Kenya had good leadership capable of transforming the nation from a developing to a prosperous state.
“For Baba, it was not about becoming President; it was about Kenya getting a good President and Kenya moving from a third-world status to a first-world status in as short a time as possible, so that we as a people can realize our potential,” Ruto said.
He added that Raila’s lifelong mission was anchored in his belief in national unity, good governance, and shared prosperity for all Kenyans.
“The glory land that he saw at the mountain top is the better, the greater, and the more perfect union for which we must now, on this Mashujaa Day, dedicate ourselves anew,” Ruto said.
The President described Raila as a visionary who placed the interests of the nation above his own, emphasizing that his legacy should inspire present and future generations to work towards a united, peaceful, and progressive Kenya.
Ruto’s remarks came as the nation continued to reflect on Raila’s enduring contributions to Kenya’s democracy, unity, and development.
The former Prime Minister was laid to rest at their Kang’o Ka’Jaramogi home, next to his parents.
The President also led the country in honouring the late Raila during the Mashujaa Day celebrations, describing him as a patriot for the ages.
Ruto said this year’s Mashujaa Day was “a celebration for reflection and also a day for renewal,” dedicated to one of the country’s most consequential and impactful sons.
“He’s the man, the legend, and the Pan-Africanist whom we dedicate Mashujaa Day to,” Ruto said.
“It is for this reason, fellow citizens, that we hold a moment of silence and celebration of his service to our great country, our continent, and to humanity.”
He credited Raila with fostering unity even among rivals, saying, “He reminded us that no disagreement is personal when it comes to the interest of our nation.”
