President William Ruto has shared emotional details of his final interactions with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing their heartfelt conversations in the weeks leading up to his death.
Speaking during Raila’s state funeral at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday, October 19, Ruto revealed that the ODM leader had sought medical treatment in several countries before settling in India, where he passed away.
According to the President, Raila had informed him that he was taking strong medication after receiving treatment abroad.
“He had visited Dubai and the United States, and they told him some things about his health. After he came back, his doctors administered more medicines to him,” Ruto said.
Ruto disclosed that while he was in New York, he had Raila’s health in mind and had planned to meet him once he returned to Kenya.
“When I called him after getting back to Kenya, he told me, ‘William, I have gone to Malindi as per the doctors’ advice. I will be back on Tuesday.’ I told him okay,” the President recounted.
On that Tuesday, Raila had intended to meet Ruto, but the Head of State suggested they meet at his Karen residence instead. It was during that meeting — in the presence of Raila’s daughter, Mama Ida, and other family members — that Ruto learned how much Raila was struggling with his health.
“I urged him to seek the best medical attention, and I assured him that the government would cater for all his medical expenses,” Ruto said.
The President’s recollection painted a picture of deep respect and friendship between the two leaders, who had shared decades of political rivalry and cooperation.
Ruto also used the solemn occasion to pledge his commitment to preserving Raila’s political legacy and strengthening the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), hinting at a possible coalition with his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“I want to tell you, my brothers in ODM, that in line with Baba’s desire to build the largest political party, we will support ODM in 2027. That is the only way we can ensure we have an effective government,” Ruto said.
He praised political parties as vital pillars of democracy, assuring ODM supporters that the party would play a central role in the country’s political future.
“To ODM members, I want to assure you that ODM will either form the next government or be part of the next government,” Ruto declared, adding, “I will not allow anyone to break ODM, because Baba believed in political parties and built ODM over the past 20 years. We will support and keep the party united.”
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