- Barack Obama has not publicly mourned the death of Raila Odinga despite being a distant cousin, which raised questions from Kenyans
- The former US president has maintained his presence on social media, offering condolences to others, but has not commented on Raila’s death.
- The lack of public condolences has left many wondering if Obama is still dealing with the tragedy, with some calling on him to show his respect as a Kenyan.
The sudden death of the former prime minister of Kenya Raila Odinga Wednesday, October 15, has left the nation in mourning.
Source: Facebook
Kenyans have wondered why former US president Barack Obama, Raila’s cousin, has not publicly mourned his death.
How did Raila Odinga die?
The ODM leader, who passed away at the age of 80, was receiving treatment at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Center in Kochi, Kerala, when he collapsed during a morning walk.
He was rushed to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was declared dead due to cardiac arrest.
Before his death, Raila was recovering from a minor stroke, with his last moments having difficulty breathing before he collapsed.
Is Obama active on social media?
Obama, who has a Kenyan background from his father’s side, has not sent any condolence messages on social media.
This has created a buzz especially since the former US president is known for his active presence on platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, where he often shares his thoughts.
For example, on the day of Raila’s death, Obama shared memories of R&BD singer Angelo, who had also passed away.
Despite his regular activities on social media, Obama has not acknowledged Raila’s death, which has sparked reactions from Kenyans.
What did Kenyans say about Obama’s silence on Raila’s death?
One netizen expressed his surprise, finding out that it was the President Donald Trump he has already sent condolences through the American Embassy in Kenya, while Obama has remained silent.
“I’m still waiting to see when former POTUS Barack Obama will honor his cousin Raila Amollo Odinga, one of Africa’s greatest sons. I saw President Donald J. Trump send his condolences through the American Embassy. Barrack, are you still asleep? Agwambo is resting. Let’s introduce the Kogelo Boy who miraculously became the president of the world. … Obama?” the netizen wrote.
Supporters of Obama and Raila flooded the comments section, voicing their concerns.
John Francis: “I just talked to a friend of mine here about the same thing. It would be an honor for Obama to do that as a politician.”
Kibe Tony: “Some things are automatic; if you don’t see the urgency, then nothing happened.”
Carolyne Anyango: “Barack Obama is still in shock, as are some of us.”
Johnson Salim: “This evening, I just wondered if the great man known as Barack Obama is aware of this. I went further by asking my friend who was also still shocked by the information, I asked him if Obama has been seen anywhere,,,,, the answer has not yet appeared, the gentleman.”
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