Raila, father and guardian of our democracy

On the 15th day of October, 2025, Kenya and Africa mourned the passing of one of their most distinguished and illustrious sons.

His demise brought forth an unprecedented outpouring of grief and cast a long shadow of sorrow across the nation and far beyond our borders.

In Raila Amolo Odinga, Kenya lost a leader extraordinaire, a man of uncommon courage, a patriot, a Pan-Africanist and a statesman who gave his life to the pursuit of freedom, justice and a Kenya with plenty within its borders.

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For decades, he walked at the centre of Kenya's long journey toward expanding her democratic space. Through years of darkness, detention, sacrifice and adversity, he did not yield.

He became a light for those who sought a freer nation, illuminating a path toward a more just, democratic and prosperous Kenya.

Raila Amolo Odinga was a once-in-a-generation leader whose vision transcended politics, and whose life became woven into the fabric of our Republic.

In this commemoration, we remember the man behind the public life: the lifelong companionship he shared with his beloved wife, Mama Ida Odinga, the love for his children and extended family, and the home that sustained him through the long arc of his public service.

We also honour his fidelity to the heritage into which he was born, which he made distinctly his own, enriched through a lifetime of service, and passed forward as an enduring national legacy.

Here at Kang'o ka Jaramogi, his place of rest, the Republic has raised this mausoleum in his honour as the father and guardian of our democracy.

May this memorial endure as a solemn testament to his life and service and to the ideals of democracy and equitable development through devolution and national unity for which he gave his all. May it remind all who come here of the path he helped illuminate.

May generations yet to be born remember his sacrifice, follow the light of his example, and guard the democratic inheritance he helped secure. When the road ahead grows uncertain, may his courage light up the way; and may this Republic, whose promise he pursued throughout his life, endure in freedom, united and steadfast, from generation to generation.

For his service and sacrifice, and for the light he gave to his nation, the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, C.G.H., the second Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya, passes from the living memory of a generation into the enduring memory of the Republic.

In witness thereof, this mausoleum is dedicated under my hand and the Public Seal of the Republic this seventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-six, in solemn commemoration of the first anniversary of his passing.