By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, December ,12 2025 - President William Ruto on Friday momentarily halted the jubilant rhythm of Jamhuri Day celebrations to lead the nation in honouring the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, marking one of the most poignant moments of the 62nd national anniversary.
As thousands filled Nyayo National Stadium, the usually vibrant crowd fell into a rare silence at the President’s request. From the VVIP dais, Ruto’s voice softened as he invited Kenyans to rise in memory of a man he described as central to the country’s democratic journey.
“I now respectfully urge all of us to join me in observing one minute of silence in honour and remembrance of the Rt Hon Raila Amolo Odinga, and honour his sacrifice, service and enduring legacy. May his spirit continue to guide our nation forward,” he said.
In an instant, the stadium bowed as one—dignitaries, families, youth and elderly alike—heads lowered, hands clasped, united by loss and gratitude. The silence, though brief, carried a weight that cut through the day’s festivities, symbolising a shared national respect for the veteran statesman.
Ruto went on to reflect on Raila’s profound impact on Kenya’s political and social landscape. He noted that Raila’s lifelong struggle for justice and constitutional freedoms “expanded the democratic space we enjoy today,” adding that his courage and resilience had shaped “defining chapters of our national story”.
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Raila Odinga, who died on 15 October 2025 at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment in India, was laid to rest four days later. His passing triggered an outpouring of tributes across the country and beyond its borders.
During Mashujaa Day in October, President Ruto dedicated the national celebration to Raila’s memory and posthumously awarded him the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.), Kenya’s highest civilian honour. The citation described him as “a statesman of rare moral courage, a visionary patriot, a unifier of the people and a champion of justice”.
The silent tribute on Jamhuri Day not only underscored the country’s ongoing mourning but also reaffirmed Raila Odinga’s enduring place in Kenya’s history—as a reformer, a steadfast patriot and a figure whose influence will continue to shape generations.
