President William Ruto has praised former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for his unwavering dedication to Kenya, stating that history will judge him fairly. Speaking on Saturday in Ndori, Siaya County, during the burial of Raila’s long-serving aide and bodyguard George Oduor, Ruto commended Raila’s consistent efforts to stand up for the nation’s best interests over personal or political gains.
“Whenever there is an opportunity to stand for the nation, Raila Odinga has always taken it,” Ruto said. “For avoidance of doubt, when Baba came to stand with me, it was not about him or his narrow interests it was about the greater interest of Kenya.”
The Head of State emphasized the significant political journey he has shared with the ODM leader, highlighting moments of both collaboration and rivalry. Ruto recalled how their relationship evolved over the years from working together in the early 2000s to becoming political opponents, and eventually collaborators again.
“I have come a very long way with Raila Odinga,” Ruto said. “I want to stand here today and say I did not know that the man I once worked under, and supported, would eventually become my competitor and later, the one anchoring my leadership.”
He expressed deep gratitude to Raila for standing with him during pivotal moments in his presidency, saying their shared history reflects mutual respect and commitment to the nation.
“Prime Minister, I want to tell you I’m truly grateful. Just the same way I stood with you when you needed someone, you have also stood with me when I needed someone,” Ruto said.
The ceremony was held in honor of George Oduor, 57, who had been Raila’s bodyguard since 1995. Oduor passed away on April 2 after a short illness.
The President’s remarks signal a thawing of relations between the two leaders, and underline a growing sense of national unity amid Kenya’s often polarized political landscape.
