
Former U.S. President Barack Obama has paid a moving tribute to the late
former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a “true champion of democracy” whose courage,
sacrifice, and devotion to peace inspired generations across Kenya, Africa, and
the world.
In a heartfelt message, Obama reflected on Odinga’s lifelong struggle for justice and democratic
governance, noting that his impact reached far beyond Kenya’s borders.
“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.
The former U.S. leader, who shares ancestral
roots with Kenya, recounted moments of personal interaction with Odinga,
praising his selflessness and commitment to national unity. “Time and again, I
personally saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions,”
Obama stated.
Odinga, who died in India on October 15 at the
age of 80, was a central figure in Kenya’s democratic journey, a man whose
political resilience and reformist zeal shaped the country’s governance for
over four decades.
Obama noted that Odinga’s political life was
defined by an extraordinary ability to reconcile without surrendering his
convictions. “Like few other leaders anywhere, he was willing to choose the
path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values,” he said.
Odinga, known to millions simply as “Baba,” was widely admired for his
unrelenting fight for multiparty democracy during Kenya’s years of one-party
rule and for his role in promoting peace after periods of political turmoil.
His efforts to bridge divides, Obama said, “set an example not just for
Kenyans, but across Africa and around the world.”
The two leaders shared a cordial relationship
rooted in mutual respect. Obama met Odinga on several occasions, including
during his official visits to Kenya as U.S. President in 2015 and as a Senator
earlier.
“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,” Obama added.
The former U.S. President extended condolences
on behalf of himself and his wife, Michelle Obama, to Odinga’s family and the
Kenyan people.
“Michelle and I send our deepest condolences
to his family and to the people of Kenya,” the statement concluded.
Odinga’s passing has drawn global tributes
from world leaders, diplomats, and civil society figures, all hailing him as a
fearless reformer, a reconciler, and a statesman who devoted his life to
building a freer, fairer Kenya.
As
Kenya prepares for a state funeral in his honor, Obama’s message joins a chorus
of voices affirming Raila Odinga’s place among Africa’s greatest democratic
icons — a man whose legacy of courage, unity, and forgiveness will live on.