Kadaga says Odinga was 'steadfast champion of Pan-African unity'

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 RAILA ODINGA: 1945 - 2025 

Uganda's Minister for East African Community (EAC) Affairs, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, has paid tribute to the late former Kenyan prime minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a "towering statesman" of the African continent who inspired generations.

Odinga died aged 80 on Wednesday (October 15) from a suspected heart attack during a health trip in India.

An outpouring of tributes have continued to flow for the late statesman, whose body arrived in Nairobi Thursday morning, followed by a public viewing — led by President William Ruto and the Odinga family — at Kasarani Stadium in the Kenyan capital.

▪️ Thousands throng to Kasarani to view Raila's body

"Mr Odinga was not only a pillar of Kenyan democracy, but also a steadfast champion of Pan-African unity, whose voice resonated far beyond his homeland," said Kadaga, who just like Odinga once was back in the day, is a legislator (representing Kamuli district as Woman MP).

She said Odinga was committed to justice, multiparty democracy and regional integration, which inspired generations across East Africa and the wider African continent.

"As a fellow servant of the East African Community, I deeply valued his vision for a borderless, prosperous, and dignified Africa, an Africa where the voices of the people shape the destiny of nations.

"Although his bid was unsuccessful, his pitch for the chair of the African Union resonated with the ideas of the African people," said the Ugandan minister, who is also the First Deputy Prime Minister.

"On behalf of the Ministry of East African Community Affairs and the people of Uganda, I extend heartfelt condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, the Odinga family, the Government and people of Kenya, the citizens of Bondo Constituency in Siaya County, Luo Nyanza province and all who mourn this monumental loss.

"May his legacy endure in the hearts of those who continue the work of building a just, united and peaceful Africa. May his soul rest in eternal peace," said Kadaga.

On Wednesday, President Ruto declared seven days of national mourning, also according Odinga a state funeral with full military honours.

A state funeral will be held at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday. On Saturday, Odinga's body will be moved to Kisumu city in Kenya's west. There will also be a public viewing there.

On Sunday, Odinga, who had desired to be buried within 72 hours, will be laid to rest in Bondo.