Uhuru recalls Raila’s unique curiosity about what happens after death
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered a deeply moving tribute during the state funeral of Raila Odinga at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, October 17, 2025, a moment that drew cheers from thousands of mourners unlike any other leader present.
Addressing the crowd, Uhuru reflected on the private conversations and unique thoughts he shared with Raila about life, mortality, and the paths of leaders who came before them, offering the public a glimpse of the late leader’s contemplative side.
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He recounted the quiet moments after long days of work, when he and Raila would relax and share small refreshments, using these times to discuss everything from politics to the wisdom of past statesmen.
“My friends, it is just a small story, nothing grand. Sometimes, after work, we would relax a little and were given a small refreshment. Why are you all laughing? By drinks, I am talking about porridge and tea. But when we were working, we would talk seriously,” Uhuru shared.
He painted a vivid picture of Raila’s curiosity about the leaders who had shaped Kenya and the region, noting how he always sought to understand their perspectives and approach to life and leadership.
Uhuru highlighted the respect Raila held for history, and how even in casual conversations, he would reflect on the legacies of figures such as Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Jomo Kenyatta, and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, often pondering what they might have discussed in private and the lessons they left behind.
“Sometimes we wondered what the elders who had gone before, like Jaramogi, Jomo, and Mwalimu Nyerere, used to discuss. I would think, perhaps they were talking politics like us, or perhaps they were watching us and quietly laughing at our little foolishness,” the retired president added.
He shared his own reflections on mortality, framing Raila’s passing within the context of the larger journey all leaders take, and the continuation of Kenya’s democratic story.
He also interceded for Raila’s soul, asking that God grant him eternal peace and receive him among the great leaders who came before.
“Raila was always very keen to understand, and now, my brother, you have gone ahead of me. I now imagine you talking with them there. I am not in a hurry to join you, but I want to take things slowly, trusting that God will help us. I know that when our time comes, we will meet Him there. So, my brother, I pray that God grants you mercy, rests you in peace, and welcomes you among your peers,” Uhuru said.
The tribute elicited enthusiastic applause and cheering from the assembled crowd, capturing the unique bond between the two leaders and the admiration Kenyans hold for both.
Raila’s demise
Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Kerala, India, at the age of 80, following a cardiac arrest.
His body was repatriated to Kenya on Thursday, October 16, amid unprecedented crowds at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, forcing the military to abandon the planned state reception.
The casket, draped in the national flag, was escorted to Kasarani Stadium for public viewing, which was relocated from Parliament Buildings to accommodate the overwhelming number of mourners.
The funeral drew national and international leaders, including President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Cabinet Secretaries, senior ODM officials, and foreign dignitaries from across Africa.
Even after the official ceremonies concluded, thousands remained in the stadium for a last opportunity to view Raila’s body.
National Youth Service and General Service Unit officers carefully managed the flow of mourners along a clearly marked path leading to the casket, allowing each person to pay their respects in turn while maintaining order and safety.
Preparations for Raila Odinga’s burial are set for Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his family homestead in Bondo, Siaya County, where he will be laid to rest beside his mother, Mary Odhiambo Odinga, in accordance with his wishes.
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Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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