Barack Obama hails Raila Odinga as a champion of democracy in heartfelt tribute
Obama also recognised Raila’s wider influence, emphasising that his life served as a model not only for Kenyans but for people across Africa and the world.
Former US President Barack Obama has paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, lauding him as a steadfast advocate for democracy who consistently put the nation’s needs before personal ambition.
In a message shared on X, Obama celebrated Raila’s enduring commitment to freedom, self-rule, and national unity.
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“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 wrote.
“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 also recognised Raila’s wider influence, emphasising that his life served as a model not only for Kenyans but for people across Africa and the world.
“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,” he said.
Alongside his message, Obama shared a photograph taken with Raila, Michelle, and Ida.
Raila, who died on October 15, 2025, aged 80, was among Kenya’s most prominent political figures.
His passing sparked national mourning and culminated in a heavily guarded state funeral attended by thousands of Kenyans and top international leaders.
In his tribute, Obama highlighted Raila’s talent for consensus-building, which allowed him to heal divisions after years of political confrontations.
Raila is remembered for his resilience, dedication to multiparty democracy, and ability to bridge deep social, ethnic, and ideological divides.
Social media in Kenya also reflected widespread grief, with many urging Obama, whose father hailed from Raila’s Luo community, to honour his distant relative and political ally.
At the State Funeral service held at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium on October 17, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki confirmed that more than 30 global leaders had sent messages of sympathy.
Among them were United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, King Salman of Saudi Arabia, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and representatives from the European Union.
Raila leaves behind a legacy of courage, principled leadership, and unwavering commitment to Kenya’s unity and democratic progress, admired both at home and internationally.
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