Kenya thrown into national mourning, tributes pour over Raila's death

A somber mood engulfed Kondele, Kisumu as residents mourned the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. [File, Standard] Kenya has been thrown into national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga. The veteran opposition leader, who spent decades shaping the country's political landscape, passed away while undergoing treatment in India. From city streets to rural villages, Kenyans have been united in grief, paying tribute to a man widely regarded as a symbol of resilience, reform, and sacrifice. Messages of condolence poured in from citizens, political leaders, and diplomats. Presidents, former colleagues, and global figures hailed Odinga as a statesman whose pursuit of democracy transcended borders, describing him as an African leader whose ideals inspired movements for justice and good governance across the continent. President William Ruto led the country in mourning as he joined the family of Odinga in company of his cabinet to condole with them. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta expressed his sorrow for the passing of Odinga mourning him as more than a political colleague but a defining part of his own journey both in public and in private. "My heart is heavy, and my spirit is burdened with a grief that is both profound and deeply personal. The news of Raila's passing has left a silence that echoes across our nation, a silence where once there was a voice of thunder and conviction," Uhuru said. "Raila and I were navigators on opposing currents, charting different courses for the nation we both loved. At some point along that journey, we became political opponents and often, the weight of that competition felt immense," he mourned. Uhuru went on to describe Baba, as he was fondly referred to, as a man who made in sharpening ideas and compelling one to defend positions with rigor and passion. "However, in the recent years, a different bond was forged; one of respect, of shared patriotism, and a common desire to see a united Kenya." "On behalf of the Government of Ethiopia, I extend my sincere condolences on the passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga. May he Rest In Peace," Abiy Ahmed Ali, the Prime Minister of Ethiopia posted on his X account. The European Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger mourned Odinga as a man who dedicated his life to fight for Kenya. "My most heartfelt condolences to the family of Raila Odinga and to all Kenyans on the passing of former PM Odinga." "He has been an iconic leader through the decades. His legacy will live on. May his soul rest in peace," Geiger said. Chief Justice Martha Koome led the Judiciary to mourn Odinga as a statesman whose name is forever etched in the annals of our democratic journey. She described A towering figure who stood at the confluence of history and destiny, and who, through courage, sacrifice, and conviction, held together the fragile threads of our nation's democracy. "His unyielding struggle for political freedom, constitutional reform, and justice transformed Kenya's political landscape, expanded the frontiers of democratic participation, anchored the principles of equality and accountability that underpin our governance today, "Koome said. Former Chief Justice David Maraga described Odinga as a a patriot, a pan-Africanist, a democrat and a leader who made significant contributions to democracy in Kenya and in Africa. "Kenya has lost one of its most formidable leaders who shaped the trajectory of our beloved country. Africa has lost a leading voice in pushing for peace, security and development. The world has lost a great leader." "During these difficult times, I pass my deepest condolences to Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, to the people of Kibra Constituency, who he represented for many years, to the people of Siaya County, where he hails from and to all of us Kenyans. May the Lord comfort us all as we deal with this enormous blow," he posted. Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) said "Today, Africa mourns the loss of one of its most iconic sons, H.E. Raila Amolo Odinga. An unwavering Pan-Africanist, he dedicated his life to the pursuit of democracy, justice, and unity. His lifelong struggle for freedom and equality inspired generations across Kenya and beyond, reminding us that leadership is not about power, but about service and sacrifice." "IGAD stands with the people and Government of Kenya in this moment of profound sorrow. His legacy will forever echo in the democratic foundations he helped build and in the enduring hope he instilled across our continent. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his example continue to guide us toward a freer and more united Africa." Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli mourned Odinga as a the glue that held our country together during moments of political misunderstanding. "The passing of Raila Odinga at a time when Kenya was yearning for unity is a big blow to our country. Raila has always Raila consistently rose above divisions to unite us as Kenyans. He is a man who Kenyans will remember for now and years to come," said Atwoli. "Indeed, many of our current leaders, including President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and several members of the Cabinet, are, in many ways, Raila's political students, shaped by his mentorship and influence. "Having been very close to Raila Odinga, and being the last person he served in his office before leaving for India for treatment, I will forever cherish his trust in me and his unwavering commitment to the Kenyan workers," Atwoli added. Murang'a governor Irungu Kang'ata- May Raila Odinga's soul rest in peace. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and supporters. May his legacy continue to inspire and guide the nation. Trans Nzoia governor George Natembeya termed the death of Odinga as not only a national tragedy, but a deeply personal loss to millions who believed in his vision of a just, united, and prosperous nation. "Kenya has lost one of her greatest sons. Raila Odinga was a statesman whose courage and resilience transformed Kenya's political landscape. Through his sacrifices, he expanded the space for democracy and taught us that leadership is about service, conviction, and unwavering faith in the people." "To us in the Western region, Raila was more than a political ally he was a guiding light. He walked with us, listened to us, and stood with our communities in moments of both hope and hardship," Natembeya added. "His belief in the unity and strength of the Luhya Nation inspired generations of leaders, myself included. As we mourn his passing, we must honor his legacy by safeguarding the values he lived for unity, justice, and inclusion. Let this moment remind us that Kenya is strongest when her people stand together." Former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Board chairperson said, "You embodied the spirit of our beloved nation, Kenya. You fought tirelessly for the 2nd liberation and your commitment to democracy & national values has left an indelible mark on our nation's history .Your loss leaves a void that can never be filled. Rest Well BABA" "I am deeply heartbroken by the passing of my dear friend and brother, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga. We shared countless moments of courage, conviction, and unyielding hope for a better Kenya, moments that defined not just our friendship but an era of struggle for freedom and justice, " said Safina Party leader Jimi Wanjigi. "Raila was more than a leader; he was the spirit of our nation's second liberation, a man whose love for Kenya burned brighter than fear. Raila was a true statesman, a patriot who devoted his life to the pursuit of justice and democracy." "His voice and vision shaped our nation's history, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. As we mourn his loss, we must also celebrate the greatness of his journey, a life lived in service, sacrifice, and steadfast belief in the power of the people. My heartfelt condolences go to Mama Ida, his children, and the entire Odinga family," Wanjigi added.

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