Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has called on members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to safeguard and advance the legacy of the late Raila Odinga, describing him as a central figure in Kenya’s political transformation.
In a message delivered by ODM Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna during the 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa, Uhuru said the event was marked by deep emotion as the party commemorated its achievements without its long-time leader.
He said Raila’s absence continued to be strongly felt across the country.
“Today, as we celebrate this milestone, my heart is emotionally heavy as I remember my brother and friend and compatriot, the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
The former president is currently in the United States for prior planned engagements.
According to Sifuna, he had been personally invited to the celebrations by Raila Odinga, before he passed away.
Uhuru described Raila as more than a party leader, portraying him as the spirit of his struggle and an embodiment of courage, endurance and unwavering belief in the Kenyan dream.
He credited Raila’s resilience and selflessness with shaping not just a justice movement but the wider course of Kenya’s political evolution.
“Baba was not just a leader of ODM. He was the embodiment of courage, endurance and unwavering faith. His courage, resilience and selflessness shaped not just the justice movement, but the very cause of Kenya’s political evolution,” he said.
The former President urged ODM members to continue advancing Raila’s long-standing fight for democracy, accountability and inclusion.
He challenged the party to work toward realising Raila’s vision of a country where no child goes hungry and where justice is accessible to all Kenyans regardless of their background.
“Let us keep alive his fight for democracy, accountability and inclusion. Let us make real his vision of a Kenya where no child goes hungry, where justice is not for the privileged few, and where every Kenyan, young or old, has an equal opportunity to thrive,” he said.
Uhuru expressed hope that ODM’s next phase would reflect renewal, growth and a firm commitment to national unity and equitable development.
He called on the party to remain steadfast in building a Kenya that belongs to all its citizens.
“May the next phase of ODM be a testament of renewal, growth and steadfast commitment to building a Kenya that truly belongs to all her citizens,” he said, concluding with blessings to ODM and the country.
