World leaders have joined Kenyans in mourning former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, whose death on Wednesday in Kochi, India, sent shockwaves across the continent and beyond.
Raila, 80, died of cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment at an Ayurvedic facility in southern India, where he had been admitted.
The veteran opposition leader, who played a central role in the country’s democratic transition and political reforms spanning over four decades, was remembered as a champion of justice, good governance and Pan-African unity.
President William Ruto was among the first to pay tribute, describing Odinga as “a statesman whose contribution to Kenya’s democracy, freedom and unity will never be forgotten.”
He added that Raila’s passing was not only a national loss but a “continental moment of reflection on leadership, courage, and resilience.”
Messages of condolence poured in from regional and international leaders, underscoring Raila’s influence beyond Kenya’s borders.
Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said his country stood in solidarity with Kenya, describing Odinga as “a towering statesman whose legacy of democracy, justice, and public service will endure.”
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali also mourned the late leader, saying, “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.” From Zambia, President Hakainde Hichilema said he was “saddened to hear of the passing of former PM Raila Odinga,” describing him as “a towering advocate for democracy whose legacy will endure.”
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan offered one of the most emotional tributes, hailing Raila as an African visionary whose influence went far beyond Kenya.
“Tumempoteza kiongozi mahiri, mwanamajumui wa Afrika, mpenda amani na mtafuta suluhu ambaye ushawishi wake haukuwa tu ndani ya Kenya, bali Afrika Mashariki na Afrika kwa ujumla,” she said.
She conveyed her condolences to President Ruto, Ida Odinga, the Odinga family and Kenyans, adding that the tragedy was a shared regional loss. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to Raila, recalling a personal friendship that dated back to his days as Chief Minister of Gujarat.
“He was a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India. I had the privilege of knowing him closely for years,” he said.
“He had a special affection for India, our culture, and our traditional medicine systems,” Modi said, referencing Raila’s previous visit to India when his daughter sought treatment that helped restore her eyesight.
Modi added that Raila’s efforts to strengthen Kenya–India relations would remain a cornerstone of his legacy.
Across Africa, Odinga was known not only as a reformist but also as a unifier, a man who championed multiparty democracy, human rights and inclusion long before they became mainstream political ideals.
His political journey, marked by detention, resilience and several presidential bids, left an indelible imprint on the country’s political landscape.
In Kisumu, Nairobi, and across Kenya, spontaneous gatherings of mourners filled the streets, singing dirges and wailing.
As messages of condolence continue to flow in, the government is coordinating with Raila’s family and Indian authorities for the repatriation of his remains.
