20 memorable quotes that define Raila Odinga’s legacy

Raila Amolo Odinga’s voice defined Kenya’s political conscience for more than four decades — a voice of defiance, hope, and resilience.

From the trenches of opposition politics to the corridors of power, his words often carried the weight of a people’s struggle and the promise of a better tomorrow.

Whether declaring that “nobody can stop reggae” or urging that “Kenya must be a country for all,” Raila spoke not just as a politician, but as a symbol of reform and national unity.

His quotes became rallying cries across generations, echoing in Parliament, protests, and presidential campaigns alike.

 As Kenya mourns his passing, his words endure — a living testament to a man who believed that freedom, justice, and democracy were not privileges, but the birthright of every Kenyan.

1. “Nobody can stop reggae.” Said during the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) rallies in 2020, this became Raila’s rallying cry, symbolizing unstoppable political momentum and unity across Kenya.

2. “Tinga tinga will keep moving.” A defiant statement made during the 2013 elections, using his nickname “Tinga,” Raila assured supporters that his political journey would not end despite setbacks.

3. “When the people are tired, they will act.” Delivered during the 2017 campaign period, this quote reflected Raila’s belief in people power and the inevitability of democratic change.

4. “The journey to Canaan is unstoppable.” Coined in 2017, Raila used biblical imagery to describe his coalition’s vision of a just and prosperous Kenya.

5. “We cannot continue to live in a country where some people think they own Kenya more than others.” A powerful call for equality and justice, often repeated in his campaign rallies, emphasizing inclusivity and national unity.

6. “Let the people decide.” A phrase he used consistently during elections, particularly in 2022, to champion free, fair, and transparent democratic processes.

7. “Kenya is bigger than any one of us.” Said after the disputed 2007 election violence, it showed Raila’s statesmanship and call for peace and reconciliation.

8. “I don’t fight individuals, I fight systems.” A reflection of his lifelong struggle against political oppression and corruption, often quoted during his reform campaigns.

9. “We must end impunity once and for all.” Raila emphasized this during multiple anti-corruption drives, underlining his stance on accountability in public service.

10. “Freedom is never given freely; it is won through struggle.” A reminder of his time as a political detainee in the 1980s, where he often invoked this sentiment to inspire resilience.

11. “The people’s voice is the voice of God.” A statement made during rallies in 2017, asserting the supremacy of the people’s will in governance.

12. “You cannot rig the will of the people.” Repeated during the 2022 election campaigns, this became a bold declaration of his fight against electoral injustice.

13. “Democracy is not a favor, it is a right.” Said during his years as opposition leader, reinforcing his commitment to democratic governance.

14. “We shake hands not because we agree, but because we must move forward.” Said in 2018 after his historic handshake with President Uhuru Kenyatta, symbolizing reconciliation and political maturity.

15. “Kenya must be a country for all — not just for the rich and powerful.” Often said during campaign rallies, this quote captured Raila’s populist message and advocacy for equity.

16. “Revolution does not come from violence; it comes from change of mind and attitude.” Raila said this while urging young people to embrace peaceful activism and civic participation.

17. “We have forgiven, but we shall not forget.” A post-2008 remark reflecting his view on transitional justice and the need for historical accountability.

18. “There comes a time when the nation is more important than an individual.” A statement made during the 2002 transition that saw the end of KANU’s long rule, echoing his call for collective patriotism.

19. “Kenya will rise again.” A hopeful statement made after the 2007 post-election crisis, reassuring citizens of recovery and resilience.

20. “My dream is a Kenya where no child goes to bed hungry.” Raila said this during his 2022 presidential campaign, summarizing his enduring vision for social justice and economic equality.