Uhuru Kenyatta Pays Tribute to Raila Odinga in Emotional Visit to Bondo

 

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday visited the family of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, a day after the former Prime Minister was laid to rest at his Opoda Farm home in Bondo, Siaya County.

Accompanied by a close delegation, Kenyatta spent time with the Odinga family, offering his condolences to Mama Ida Odinga and the bereaved family members. The former Head of State described Raila as a "patriot, a friend, and a compatriot," whose contribution to Kenya’s democracy and political history would never be forgotten.

“Raila Odinga was more than just a political leader. He was a symbol of resilience, a man who sacrificed so much so that Kenya could be freer, fairer, and more united,” Kenyatta said during the visit. “Even in detention, defeat, or disagreement, Raila remained committed to the people and the promise of our nation.”

Uhuru Kenyatta also toured the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, where he paid tribute to the wider Odinga family’s legacy in shaping Kenya’s post-independence journey. He noted that from Jaramogi to Raila, the Odingas had played a central role in championing justice, democracy, and equity in Kenya.

“The torch carried by the Odinga family must not be allowed to die. It is now our duty—as leaders and citizens—to carry that legacy forward,” he said.

Kenyatta, who worked closely with Odinga during the 2018 handshake and the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), described their partnership as a turning point in Kenya’s political culture.

As he concluded his visit, the former President called on the nation to reflect on the values Raila stood for and to honor his memory by strengthening unity, justice, and democratic governance.