Former U.S. President Barack Obama has paid an emotional tribute to Kenya’s late opposition leader and former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga and described him as a courageous statesman who dedicated his life to the pursuit of democracy, peace and national unity.
In a heartfelt statement, Obama said Odinga’s lifelong struggle symbolized the resilience and hope of the Kenyan people.
“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.
He added, “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.”
Obama added that Odinga’s influence extended far beyond Kenya’s borders, shaping democratic ideals across the African continent.
Obama added, “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. Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya.”
Obama’s message carried deep personal resonance given his Kenyan heritage. His late father, Barack Hussein Obama Sr. hailed from Siaya County, not far from Odinga’s ancestral home in Bondo. During his presidency, Obama often spoke fondly of Kenya as his father’s homeland and made a historic visit in 2015 during which he praised the nation’s progress in democracy and economic development.
Both Obama and Odinga shared mutual respect forged through Kenya’s political transformation. Odinga’s role in reconciling divided political factions after the 2007–2008 post-election violence earned him admiration from world leaders, including Obama, who saw him as a stabilizing figure in East Africa’s politics.
Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025, in India where he had been receiving medical treatment, will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025 at his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County. The burial will be conducted with full state honors, with thousands of mourners expected to attend, including African heads of state and dignitaries from across the globe.
