President William Ruto has honoured the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as the “father and guardian” of Kenya’s democracy.
Ruto made the remarks on Wednesday, October 7, during the official commissioning and dedication of Raila’s mausoleum at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
In a message marking the first anniversary of Raila’s death, Ruto described him as a courageous leader, patriot, Pan-Africanist and statesman who devoted his life to the pursuit of freedom, justice and development.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, aged 80, after a long career in Kenyan public life. He served as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013 and remained a major figure in the country’s political history.
Ruto said Raila played a major role in Kenya’s journey towards expanding democratic space, recalling the former Prime Minister’s years of political struggle, detention and sacrifice.
He also paid tribute to Raila’s family, highlighting his relationship with his wife, Mama Ida Odinga, his children and extended family.
The President said the mausoleum had been established as a national memorial to honour Raila’s contribution to Kenya and preserve his legacy for future generations.
“Here at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, his place of rest, the Republic has raised this mausoleum in his honour as the father and guardian of our democracy,” Ruto said.
The mausoleum was constructed through the Kenya Defence Forces and is expected to come under the stewardship of the National Museums of Kenya for preservation and interpretation.
The October 7 ceremony was restricted to invited guests, with members of the public expected to have an opportunity to visit the mausoleum from October 8. A larger public commemoration of Raila’s first anniversary is scheduled for October 15.