Dr. Chris Kiptoo Mourns Raila Odinga: “Kenya Has Lost a Visionary, I Have Lost a Friend”

 

 As the nation comes to terms with the death of former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, tributes continue to pour in from across the globe. Among the many voices mourning the loss is that of Dr. Chris Kiptoo, Principal Secretary at the National Treasury, who worked closely with the late Odinga during the Grand Coalition Government.

In a heartfelt message released early this morning from Washington, DC, Dr. Kiptoo expressed his shock and sorrow upon learning of the statesman's passing.

“It is hard to believe that Baba is no more,” Dr. Kiptoo wrote. “I served as his Economic Advisor for four years during the Grand Coalition Government, during which we became close friends. He was a great mentor and boss.”

Dr. Kiptoo hailed Raila Odinga as a visionary, courageous, and selfless leader whose legacy as a freedom fighter and reformist would remain forever etched in Kenya’s history.

“He dedicated his life to justice, democracy, and the well-being of all Kenyans. His commitment to social justice and unity was unwavering—even in the face of persecution, imprisonment, and political betrayal,” Kiptoo stated.

A Life Devoted to Democracy

Raila Odinga passed away on Tuesday, October 15, in India at the age of 80, while undergoing medical treatment. The former Prime Minister was a towering figure in Kenya’s political history—detained multiple times for standing against autocracy, instrumental in the country’s transition to multiparty democracy, and a key player in the 2010 Constitution.

Dr. Kiptoo, who worked with Odinga during the 2008–2013 Grand Coalition Government, praised the late Prime Minister’s leadership style:

“Baba was not just a politician—he was a national compass. He could see a Kenya we could not yet touch, and he never stopped moving us toward that vision. He inspired us to think bigger, act boldly, and lead with purpose.”

A Call to Honor His Legacy

In his tribute, Dr. Kiptoo called on Kenyans to honor Raila’s legacy by continuing his pursuit of a united, just, and equitable Kenya.

“To the people of Kenya, may we honour Baba’s vision by continuing his pursuit of a just and united nation,” he urged. “Let us commit ourselves to the values he held dear—truth, integrity, and service to the nation.”

Dr. Kiptoo also extended condolences to Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, acknowledging their sacrifices and unwavering support for Raila’s lifelong mission.

“May God comfort Mama Ida, the Odinga family, and the people of Kenya during this time of great loss,” he said. “May Baba rest in eternal peace.”

National Mourning Begins

President William Ruto has declared a seven-day period of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast. The government has also confirmed that Raila Odinga will be accorded a State Funeral, in recognition of his immense contribution to the nation.

A national funeral committee has been established, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Senator Oburu Odinga, to oversee arrangements.

As Kenya and the wider African continent mourn the passing of a democratic icon, Dr. Kiptoo’s message resonates deeply:

“Rest in eternal peace, Raila Amollo Odinga. You ran your race with honor. Your dream shall not die.”