Garba Mohammed
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep condolences to the government and people of Kenya following the death of the country’s former Prime Minister and prominent opposition leader, Raila Odinga.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Odinga as “a towering figure in African politics and a champion of democracy and justice.”
Tinubu commended Odinga’s lifelong commitment to democratic ideals, national unity, and electoral reform, saying his contributions had left an indelible mark on Kenya’s political landscape.
“His legacy will endure in the institutions he helped to shape and the democratic ideals he championed. We mourn with Kenya in this moment of national grief and stand in solidarity with you, President William Ruto, as you lead your nation through this painful chapter,” Tinubu stated.
Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, was celebrated across the continent for his dedication to Pan-Africanism and inclusive governance.
“The late Raila Odinga embodied the true spirit of Pan-Africanism, dedicating his life to the cause of freedom, inclusive governance, and regional cooperation. May his memory continue to guide Kenya towards peace, unity, and progress,” the President added.
Confirming the development, Indian police disclosed that Odinga collapsed while taking a walk in India’s southern state of Kerala.
According to Krishnan M, Additional Superintendent of Police in Kerala, the Kenyan leader was accompanied by his sister, daughter, personal doctor, and security aides when the incident occurred.
“The Kenyan national was on a walk with his sister, daughter, and a personal doctor when he suddenly collapsed. An Indian police security officer and a Kenyan security officer were also with them at the time. He was rushed to a nearby private hospital but was declared dead,” Krishnan said.
Odinga’s death was also confirmed by a member of his political team, who requested anonymity pending an official announcement from his party.
Raila Odinga, often referred to as “Baba” by supporters, was widely respected for his resilience, advocacy for justice, and unwavering pursuit of democratic reform in Kenya and Africa at large.