Ruto discloses Raila’s greatest wish on the country’s presidency
By David Nthua, October 20, 2025President William Ruto has disclosed that the late Raila Odinga’s greatest wish was for Kenya to be led by a just, visionary, and transformative president.
Speaking at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County during the Mashujaa Day celebrations on Monday, October 20, 2025, Ruto reflected on the life of the former prime minister, describing him as a man who always placed the country above self.
The President said Raila’s politics were never driven by greed or personal ambition but by an enduring desire to see Kenya governed well and its people prospering under capable leadership.
Ruto further praised the former prime minister as a patriot devoted to Kenya’s progress over personal ambition.
Ruto speaks on Raila’s wish during Mashujaa Day speech
“It was never about Raila becoming president; it was about Kenya having a good president,” Ruto stated.
“He believed that Kenya’s best days were still ahead. He endured prison, persecution and political defeat yet never gave in to bitterness or hopelessness.”
The Head of State’s remarks were received with warm applause from the crowd, many of whom interpreted them as an acknowledgement that Raila had lived long enough to see part of his dream realised, a Kenya striving for honest and accountable governance.
Ruto described Raila as a hero who, despite immense personal suffering, consistently chose the path of unity and dialogue over division.
“When the stakes are high, heroes rise above partisanship and put the country first,” the president said.
“Raila reminded us that collaboration, even with rivals, is not an act of political convenience but a sacred pact with posterity.”
Ruto calls for national unity
He noted that the late opposition leader had always believed in constructive cooperation between the government and the opposition for the good of the nation.
Ruto added that the country must carry forward that legacy by ensuring politics remains a tool for progress, not a weapon of destruction.
Ruto further praised Raila for his resilience and patriotism, saying his contributions to Kenya’s democracy would remain etched in history.
“His endurance through decades of struggle and his hope for a better Kenya remind us that true leadership is service and sacrifice,” he said.
The President concluded by calling on Kenyans to honour Raila’s legacy through unity, integrity and hard work, emphasising that the late leader’s dream of a peaceful and prosperous nation continues to guide the country’s path forward.