RAILA ODINGA: Presidents, Heads of States mourn ex-PM

Uhuru Kenyatta, 4th President, Kenya

My heart is heavy, and my spirit is burdened with a grief that is both profound and deeply personal. The news of Raila’s passing has left a silence that echoes across our nation, a silence where once there was a voice of thunder and conviction.

To me, Raila was more than a political colleague; he was a defining part of my own journey, in public service and in life. Raila and I were navigators on opposing currents, charting different courses for the nation we both loved. At some point along that journey, we became political opponents and often, the weight of that competition felt immense.

Baba, as we fondly referred to him, was a man who made you sharpen your own ideas, compelling you to defend your positions with rigor and passion.
However, in the recent years, a different bond was forged; one of respect, of shared patriotism, and a common desire to see a united Kenya.

That journey from fierce political opponents to partners in the pursuit of “Handshake” unity taught me the true measure of the man. I saw firsthand his unwavering passion for this country, his deep-seated belief in justice, and his incredible capacity to think beyond personal ambition for the sake of national peace. He was a formidable opponent, but he was an even more invaluable ally in the cause of reconciliation.

I have lost a friend and a brother. I will miss our conversations sometimes challenging, always insightful and the fire of belief that never left his eyes.

To Mama Ida, the children, and the entire Odinga family, I extend my deepest, most heartfelt condolences. You have shared Baba with Kenya for a lifetime, and we mourn with you. We have lost a father to the nation, a steadfast champion for the people, and a true son of Kenya.

His legacy is not just in the political battles he fought, but in the peace he helped build. It is etched in the very fabric of our nation. Rest in peace, my brother. Your work here is done, but your echo will never fade.

Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania

Nimepokea kwa masikitiko makubwa taarifa ya kifo cha Mheshimiwa Raila Amolo Odinga. Tumempoteza kiongozi mahiri, Mwanamajumui wa Afrika, mpenda amani na mtafuta suluhu, ambaye ushawishi na upendo wake haukuwa tu ndani ya Kenya, bali Afrika Mashariki na Afrika kwa ujumla.

Msiba huu si wa Kenya pekee, bali wetu sote. Kwa niaba ya Serikali na Wananchi wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania, ninatuma salamu za pole kwa Rais wa Jamhuri ya Kenya, Mheshimiwa Dkt. William Samoei Ruto, Mama Ida Odinga, watoto, familia, ndugu, jamaa, marafiki na wananchi wote wa Kenya kwa msiba huu.

Tunaungana kuwaombea kwa Mwenyezi Mungu awajalie subra, faraja na imani katika kipindi hiki, na ailaze roho ya mpendwa wetu, Mheshimiwa Raila Amolo Odinga, mahali pema peponi. Amina.

Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia

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.

Nerandra Modi, Prime Minister, India.

Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and former Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr. Raila Odinga. He was a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India.

I had the privilege of knowing him closely since my days as Chief Minister of Gujarat and our association continued over the years. He had a special affection for India, our culture, values and ancient wisdom.

This was reflected in his efforts to strengthen India-Kenya ties. He particularly admired Ayurveda and traditional medicine systems of India, having witnessed their positive impact on his daughter’s health. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and to the people of Kenya in this hour of grief.