By KPC Reporter
President William Samoei Ruto has taken steps to lead Kenyans in mourning the passing of former Prime Minister (PM) Raila Amolo Odinga, declaring a seven-day period of national mourning beginning Wednesday.
In a statement from State House, Nairobi, the President described Raila as “a giant of democracy, a fearless freedom fighter, and a tireless warrior of good governance,” whose legacy will shape Kenya’s destiny for generations.
The mourning period will see the National Flag flown at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad.
All public engagements by the President have been postponed as a mark of respect, allowing space for national reflection and unity.
“Let us come together, as he always urged us to do, not as rivals, but as brothers and sisters bound by a shared destiny,” President Ruto urged.
To honour Raila Odinga’s extraordinary contributions to the nation, the President announced that the former PM will be accorded a state funeral with full honours.
A funeral committee co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has been established to coordinate arrangements in consultation with the Odinga family.
In a gesture of international solidarity, the government of India has offered to facilitate the repatriation of Raila’s remains.
A delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, including Mama Ida Odinga, senior government officials, and family members, departed immediately to oversee the process.
President Ruto’s leadership during this moment of national grief has been marked by dignity, unity, and reverence.
His tribute emphasized Raila’s lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and freedom, noting that “he endured detention and persecution so that this nation might know and enjoy democracy.”
As the country mourns, the President has called on all Kenyans to reflect on Raila’s towering legacy and the lessons of his principled politics.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace. May God comfort his family. May God bless Kenya,” he said.