Ruto unveils Raila Odinga mausoleum at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi

Ruto, who was joined by Raila’s widow Mama Idah Odinga, family members; clergy and other dignitaries, led the ceremony on Wednesday before a memorial service at the site.

During the ceremony, the President read a presidential citation honouring Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s political and democratic history, describing him as a courageous leader, patriot and Pan-Africanist who dedicated his life to the pursuit of freedom, justice and democracy.

Ruto reflected on Raila’s decades-long political career, including periods of detention and political adversity, saying the former Prime Minister remained steadfast in his push for a fairer and more democratic country.

He said Kenya had lost an extraordinary leader who, for decades, occupied a central place in the country’s struggle to expand democratic space.

The president said the mausoleum would serve not only as Raila’s final resting place but also as a lasting testament to his contribution to Kenya’s democracy.

Mama Idah later formally dedicated the site to God and invited the church to bless the grounds.

Flanked by family members and government officials, she said the mausoleum should remain a sanctuary of peace and a reminder of Raila’s life of public service.

The ceremony culminated in the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by President Ruto and Mama Idah before a memorial service got underway at Kang’o ka Jaramogi.