Rwandan President Paul Kagame has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Raila Amolo Odinga, to President William Ruto, and to the people of Kenya, following the former Prime Minister’s death in India on Wednesday at the age of 80.
In a message shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, President Kagame mourned Odinga as a towering statesman whose lifelong dedication to public service, democracy, and justice left an indelible mark on Kenya and the African continent.
“On behalf of the people of Rwanda and on my own behalf, I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, to my brother President William, and to the people of Kenya on the passing of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga,” Kagame said.
“His lifelong dedication to public service and his steadfast commitment to democracy, justice, and unity in Kenya and across Africa will be remembered for generations to come. We stand in solidarity with the government and people of Kenya during this time of national mourning.”
Odinga, one of Kenya’s most influential and enduring political figures, served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and was a central figure in the nation’s transition toward multi-party democracy.
Despite multiple unsuccessful presidential bids — in 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022 — Odinga remained a powerful voice for democratic reform, inclusion, and good governance, earning him widespread admiration both at home and abroad.
Fondly known as Baba, Odinga has been hailed as the “lion of African politics,” whose voice resonated with marginalized communities across East Africa. His leadership, courage, and vision for a united and prosperous Kenya inspired generations of political leaders across the continent.
Kagame’s tribute joins a growing chorus of condolences from African leaders, international dignitaries, and citizens worldwide mourning the loss of a man seen as one of Africa’s most resilient champions of democracy.
According to the official funeral program, Odinga will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, in a ceremony expected to draw regional and global leaders.