- Former US president Barack Obama and his wife Michelle have joined Kenyans in mourning the late Raila Odinga
- Obama and Michelle eulogized Raila as a true champion of democracy who put his personal needs aside to fight for the well-being of others
- The former POTUS’s message came after Kenyans had questioned his silence, given the closeness Raila had with him
Former United States President Barack Obama, together with his wife Michelle, has joined Kenyans in mourning the deceased ODM leader, Raila Odinga.
Source: Twitter
He sent his heartfelt condolences to the veteran leader.
How Barack Obama cried for Raila Odinga
Obama hailed Raila as a champion of democracy who foresaw his personal gains and prosperity fighting for others.
He saw that the late leader always put the country’s interests before his own, as evidenced by the reconciliation he had with his political rivals.
Obama and his wife noted that Raila’s impact in seeking social justice went beyond Kenya and the African continent.
They praised him for setting a high standard as a social activist and setting a role model for many.
The Obamas shared in the grief with Raila’s family and Kenyans in general, noting that he will not be missed.
“Raila Odinga was a true defender of democracy. A child of freedom, he endured many decades of struggle and sacrifice for the broader cause of freedom and self-government in Kenya. Time and time again, I personally saw him put the interests of his country before his ambitions. Like few other leaders anywhere, he was ready to choose the path of peaceful reconciliation, and laid the foundation for Raila’s reconciliation. An example not only for Kenyans, but all over Africa and all over the world I know he will be missed and Michelle we send Our condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya,” wrote on X.
Obama’s message came after Kenyans questioned their silence despite being close to Raila and his ancestors’ ties to Kenya through his father.
His silence drew attention as he continued his activities on social media, expressing his views on topical issues.
These questions hit his social networks after Raila died. He posted a tribute to the late R&B artist D’Angelo, which made some Kenyans question why he did not recognize Raila, even after the White House conveyed its condolences through the US Embassy in Nairobi.
How the French president cried for Raila
Apart from Obama, French President Emmanuel Macron also sent a message to Odinga’s family and Kenyans in general.
Macron paid tribute to Raila, describing him as a tireless defender of justice, freedom and the vision of a united Africa.
He sent his condolences to Odinga’s family and stood with them in mourning.
“While Kenya mourns the death of the former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga, France joins the people of Kenya in honoring a leader whose courage and commitment shaped the country’s democratic journey. His commitment to equality, inclusion reflected ideas that inspire democratic societies around the world. In these difficult days, our thoughts are with his family who are the national mourners of France. Kenya in this time of sorrow May the lasting legacy of Raila Odinga continue to light the way for Kenya and for Africa,” read Macron’s message.
When did Raila Odinga die?
Raila passed away on October 15 at the Devamatha hospital in southern India, where he was rushed after collapsing while on a walk.
Earlier, he was receiving treatment at Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Center for an undisclosed illness.
His death was attributed to a heart attack.
What did the doctors who treated Raila say?
The medical team at Devamatha Hospital reported that they made every effort to revive Raila using CPR and other emergency interventions, but they were unsuccessful.
The attending specialist confirmed that at the time of arrival, there were no signs of cardiac activity.
He was placed in the intensive care unit (ICU) and put on a ventilator to help his breathing, which was severely compromised.
Despite their best efforts, the 80-year-old man breathed his last during treatment.
Subsequent evaluations revealed that she had diabetes, kidney problems, Deep Vein Thrombosis in her right leg, and a frequent history of fainting spells.
The body was brought back to Kenya by high-level delegation led by the Prime Minister Stay Mudavadi.
Source: Getty Images
Will Raila Odinga be given a state funeral?
In recognition of Raila Odinga’s national status, President William Ruto he announced that he would be honored with a national funeral.
Nyayo Stadium has been designated as the official stadium, where full rituals, including military honors, will be observed.
The President also announced a period of seven days of national mourning, during which flags will be flown at half-mast to honor the late leader.
Raila will be buried at his home Bondo Sunday, October 19.
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