By Stevie Ben
Former President of the United States of America, Mr. Barack Obama has mourned the death of Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, saying he was an example, not just for Kenyans, but across Africa and beyond.
In a statement shared via his verified social media handles, the Kenyan-descent former US President stressed that the late Odinga, whom he christened “child of independence”, endured decades of struggle while sacrificing for the broader cause of freedom.
“Raila Odinga was a true champion of democracy. A child of independence, he endured decades of struggle and sacrifice for the broader cause of freedom and self-governance in Kenya. Time and again, I personally saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions”, the first US black President said.
While condoling with the people of Kenya over the loss, Mr Obama recalled how Odinga was always willing to choose the path of peace and reconciliation without compromising his core values.
“Like few other leaders anywhere, he was willing to choose the path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values. Through his life, Raila Odinga set an example not just for Kenyans, but across Africa and around the world. I know he will be missed. Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya”, he concluded.
Raila Odinga was a Kenyan politician who served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. He was a key figure in Kenyan politics, known for his advocacy for democracy and human rights.
Odinga, a leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ran for president five times, alleging electoral fraud in each instance.
He will be remembered for playing a significant role in shaping Kenya’s constitutional reforms. He was also famous for mediating often times, in regional conflicts.
Odinga died in India on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80, while he was receiving medical treatment.
