President John Dramani Mahama has joined global leaders in mourning the passing of Kenya’s former Prime Minister and veteran opposition leader, Raila Amolo Odinga, describing his death as “a sad loss to Kenya, Africa, and the world.”
In a heartfelt message shared on Facebook, President Mahama extended condolences to Kenyan President William Ruto, Mama Idah Odinga, the Odinga family, and the people of Kenya.
“A sad loss to Kenya, Africa and the World! My condolences, President William Samoei Ruto, Mama Idah Odinga, the Odinga Odinga family and the people of #Kenya,” Mahama wrote.
Odinga, 80, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk at a hospital in Kerala, India, where he had been receiving treatment.
A towering figure in African politics, Odinga’s career spanned more than four decades of leadership, opposition, and reform. He was widely regarded as the father of Kenya’s modern democracy — a relentless advocate for multiparty politics, constitutional reform, and good governance.
Despite contesting five presidential elections without success, Odinga’s influence was felt across the continent. His courage in challenging authoritarian rule and his role in crafting Kenya’s 2010 Constitution left an indelible mark on the country’s political evolution.
President Mahama’s tribute underscores Odinga’s continental significance, portraying him not only as a national hero but as a beacon of democratic resilience and pan-African leadership.
Kenya’s President William Ruto has since declared seven days of national mourning, describing Odinga as “a once-in-a-generation leader whose ideals rose above politics and whose legacy will continue to shape Kenya’s destiny.”
Odinga will be accorded a state funeral with full military honors in the coming days.
