President William Ruto has credited former Prime Minister Raila Odinga with playing a pivotal role in his political formation, describing himself as Raila’s “first student” and acknowledging the veteran opposition leader’s influence on his rise to the presidency.
Speaking during a public engagement, President Ruto said Raila not only taught him the fundamentals of politics but also helped shape his understanding of leadership, strategy, and national service at a formative stage of his career.
“Raila taught us politics. I was his first student, and he played a huge role in me becoming President,” Ruto said, in remarks that underscored the depth of their early political association.
The President’s statement revisited a chapter in Kenya’s political history when both leaders worked closely together, particularly during the struggle for multiparty democracy and later within government. Ruto rose through the ranks as a young politician under Raila’s mentorship, gaining national prominence during their time in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Although the two later became fierce political rivals, with sharp divisions defining Kenya’s elections over the years, Ruto’s comments signaled recognition of Raila’s long-standing role in nurturing political talent and shaping national discourse.
Political observers view the remarks as significant, coming from a sitting President who has often found himself on the opposite side of Raila in Kenya’s highly competitive political arena. The acknowledgment also reflects the complex nature of Kenyan politics, where rivalry and mentorship often coexist.
Raila Odinga is widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most influential political figures, having played a central role in the fight for democracy, constitutional reform, and governance reforms over several decades. His impact on multiple generations of leaders continues to be felt across the political divide.
President Ruto’s statement adds to the narrative that Kenya’s political leadership, despite deep disagreements, is interconnected by shared history, mentorship, and experiences that have collectively shaped the country’s democratic journey.
