- Former US president Barack Obama and his wife Michelle joined Kenyans in mourning the late Raila Odinga
- Obama and Michelle eulogised Raila as a true champion of democracy who put his personal needs aside to fight for the well-being of others
- The former POTUS’s message came after Kenyans had questioned his silence, given the closeness Raila had with him
Kai Eli, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.
Former United States president Barack Obama, together with his wife Michelle, has joined Kenyans in mourning the deceased ODM leader, Raila Odinga.
Source: Twitter
He sent a heartfelt tribute to the fallen leader.
How Barack Obama mourned Raila Odinga
Obama eulogised Raila as a champion of democracy who forewent his personal gains and well-being to fight for others.
He observed that the deceased leader always put the interests of the country before his own, evidenced by the reconciliations he had with his political adversaries.
Obama and his wife noted that Raila’s impact in the quest for social justice went beyond Kenya and the African continent.
They lauded him for setting the bar high as a social crusader and setting an example to be emulated by many.
The Obamas shared in the grief with Raila’s family and Kenyans at large, noting that he would be missed.
“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. Like few other leaders anywhere, he was willing to choose the path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values. Throughout 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 wrote on X.
Obama’s message came after Kenyans questioned their silence despite having been close to Raila and his ancestral ties with Kenya through his father.
His silence drew attention as he went about his business on social media, commenting on topical matters.
The questions inundated his social media platforms after Raila died.
He posted a tribute to the late R&B artist D’Angelo, prompting some Kenyans to question why he hadn’t acknowledged Raila, even after the White House conveyed its sympathies through the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi.
How French president mourned Raila
Besides Obama, French president Emmanuel Macron also sent a message to the Odinga family and the Kenyan people at large.
Macron paid tribute to Raila, describing him as a tireless advocate for justice, liberty, and the vision of a united Africa.
He extended heartfelt sympathies to Odinga’s family and stood with them in mourning.
“As Kenya mourns the passing of former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga, France joins the Kenyan people in paying tribute to a leader whose courage and commitment shaped the country’s democratic journey. His commitment to equality, inclusion reflected the very ideals that inspire democratic societies across the world. In these difficult days, our thoughts are with his family and with all Kenyans who are mourning the loss of a national figure. France stands beside the people of Kenya in this moment of grief. May Raila Odinga’s enduring legacy continue to light the path for Kenya and for Africa,” read Macron’s message.
When did Raila Odinga die?
Raila passed away on October 15 at Devamatha Hospital in southern India, where he was taken urgently after collapsing during a walk.
Prior, he had been receiving treatment at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre for an undisclosed illness.
His death was attributed to cardiac arrest.
What medics who treated Raila said
The medical team at Devamatha Hospital reported that they made every effort to resuscitate Raila using CPR and other emergency interventions, but were unsuccessful.
The attending specialist confirmed that upon arrival, there were no signs of cardiac activity.
He was placed in the ICU and intubated to support his breathing, which had become severely compromised.
Despite their intensive efforts, the 80-year-old took his last breath during treatment.
Subsequent evaluations revealed he had diabetes, kidney issues, Deep Vein Thrombosis in his right leg, and a recurring history of fainting episodes.
The body was repatriated to Kenya by a high-level delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
Source: Getty Images
Will Raila Odinga be given state funeral?
In recognition of Raila’s national stature, President William Ruto announced that he will be honoured with a state funeral.
Nyayo Stadium was designated as the official venue, where full ceremonial rites, including military honours, will be observed.
The president also declared a seven-day national mourning period, during which flags will fly at half-mast to pay tribute to the late leader
Raila is set to be laid to rest at his native home in Bondo on Sunday, October 19.
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
