Former President Uhuru Kenyatta eulogised Raila Odinga as a beacon of peace, democracy and human rights in Kenya.
Speaking during Raila Odinga's state funeral at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, October 17, Uhuru added that no account of the country's history would be complete without mentioning Raila at the forefront.
"Our history in this country is not complete without Raila as number one," he said as he urged Kenyans to maintain the ideals of Raila for eternity.
In his speech, Uhuru described Raila as a leader who remained close to the people and embraced all Kenyans equally.
“Raila Odinga was never tribal; he loved all the people of Kenya.This is evident in the friendships he built across the country. Raila valued you for your thoughts and words not because of the colour of your skin,” he said
“Raila has left us in body but in our spirits and in the spirit of Kenya, he will live for years to come.”
Uhuru also offered his condolences to Raila’s family, led by his widow, Mama Ida Odinga, and their children, Rosemary, Junior, and Winnie. He added that he would now take care of them in Raila’s absence.
Also Read: Raila Odinga to be Buried Next to His Father Jaramogi in Private Ceremony - Oburu Odinga
Enjoying ‘Porridge’
The former head of state also took the time to recount the casual moments he had shared with the former prime minister.
He recalled casual talks with Raila Odinga about their forefathers and other fallen heroes of the country and region, during which they would wonder if their forefathers were watching them and what they thought about them.
"Sometimes after work, when we'd relax a bit, we would be given a small something there. You're laughing? By 'a small something,' I mean porridge and tea.”
“We would talk about our fathers who had passed away, wondering if they were watching us and what they might be saying. Now I know you are with them, talking to our old men," Uhuru said.
Also Read: My Dad Died in My Arms, Winnie Odinga Recounts Last Moments With Raila
While jokingly clarifying that he was in no rush to join the forefathers, he revealed he finds comfort knowing Raila is now with them in a better place.
“Now, my friend, now that you have gone ahead of me there, I know you all talk to each other there. Not that I'm in a hurry to come and join you there, I still want to rest a bit, may God help us. I know when our time comes, you will be there to show us the way and the roads there. May God have mercy and rest your soul."
Following the contentious 2017 presidential elections, the former Head of State had a now-famous handshake with the late ODM leader, and they would often refer to each other as 'my brother'.
