Barack Obama mourns Raila Odinga, calls him Kenyan hero who put country before own ambitions

Former United States President Barack Obama has finally broken his silence with a moving tribute to the late Raila Odinga, describing him as a "true champion of democracy" and a man whose life's work shaped Kenya's democratic journey. Raila, the former Prime Minister of Kenya, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Kochi, Kerala, India. He reportedly collapsed during a morning walk before being rushed to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was pronounced dead following cardiac arrest. Before his death, Raila, who was aged 80, had been recovering and was in high spirits. His final moments, however, were marked by breathing difficulties before he suddenly collapsed. Obama's tribute came after growing speculation and concern from Kenyans online over his silence. Despite being a distant cousin to Raila Odinga, the former US President had not publicly commented on his passing, even as he remained active on social media. The delay sparked mixed reactions, with many Kenyans questioning whether Obama was still processing the loss or choosing to grieve privately. Some urged him to show his respect publicly, noting Raila's stature as both a national and continental statesman. When Obama finally released his statement, it carried the grace and emotional depth befitting Raila's legacy. "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," Obama said. He revealed that he had personally witnessed Raila's devotion to the country's progress and democratic ideals. "Time and again, I personally saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions," he added. Obama also praised Raila's courage to embrace reconciliation without surrendering his principles, saying, "Like few other leaders anywhere, he was willing to choose the path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values." The former US leader concluded with a heartfelt message to Kenyans and the Odinga family: "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."

Barack Obama mourns Raila Odinga, calls him Kenyan hero who put country before own ambitions

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week.

Related Topics

Similar Articles

Latest Stories

The Standard Insider

Digger Classified

GET OUR NEWSLETTER

CONNECT WITH US

FOR THE LATEST JOB ADVERTS

Similar Articles

Legal battle brews over new tea levy, directorship

For Africa to move forward, Africans must be allowed to cross borders

Global housing crisis deepens despite policy gains - UN warns

Mbadi names Adan Mohamed as new KRA chief

DIGGER JOBS

Digger Motors

Digger Real Estate

Barack Obama mourns Raila Odinga, calls him Kenyan hero who put country before own ambitions

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week.

Related Topics

Similar Articles

Latest Stories

The Standard Insider

Digger Classified

GET OUR NEWSLETTER

CONNECT WITH US

FOR THE LATEST JOB ADVERTS