Raila Odinga passing: Leaders pay tribute to Kenyan opposition icon

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A section of Ugandan leaders have taken to social media to pay tribute to Raila Amollo Odinga, a former prime minister and a towering figure of Kenyan politics, who died at the age of 80 years in India.

Raila, widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most influential political figures, dedicated his life to the fight for democracy, justice and inclusive governance. He was announced dead on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, morning.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among said, “We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Kenya as we mourn the loss of a leader whose influence reached far beyond the country's borders, inspiring the entire African continent. His passion for a united Kenya and his commitment to dialogue during times of political disagreement set a precedent for conflict resolution in the nation's best interest. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mama Idah Odinga, the Jaramogi Odinga family, and the people of Kenya during this difficult time.”

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa said: I am saddened to learn of the demise of Odinga, a distinguished statesman in our region. He was selfless in advancing the interests of Kenyans and the region at large, promoting peace, development, and good diplomatic relations. There are several instances when Raila quietly stepped in to help Uganda and Kenya maintain good relations. He has done that for many other countries.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa.

Tayebwa noted that from Odinga’s life dedicated to politics, “we learn that there are moments when one must put the interests of their country first, something he did many times throughout his political career. I extend my sincere condolences to Raila’s family, friends, and the people of Kenya. May God strengthen you during this difficult time. Rest in Peace, Baba!”

Buganda kingdom’s premier, Charles Peter Mayiga.

Buganda kingdom’s premier, Charles Peter Mayiga, said: The news of the death of Mr Raila Odinga has been received with sadness. The Odinga family has had a long and close relationship with Buganda's Royal Family, right from the days of Ssekabaka Edward Muteesa II to date. Raila Odinga has contributed significantly to Kenya's political processes and constitutional development. He has also been a strong businessman. I express my condolences to members of his family, friends, Kenyans, and all East Africans. May the Lord receive his soul.

Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi.

Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, said: News of the passing of Raila Amolo Odinga is most unfortunate. A man so huge a figure, not just in Kenya, but Africa at large. Odinga fought for Kenya’s democracy for most of his life. Though he didn’t become President, his contribution to the struggle for a better Kenya is indelible. Rest in Peace, Baba.

Former National Resistance Movement party vice-chairperson in charge of eastern Uganda, Mike Mukula, who was also a friend of Raila, said: Today, I mourn with deep sorrow and an aching heart the passing of Odinga, affectionately known across Africa as Baba. His departure marks the end of an era, not only for Kenya but for the entire African continent.

Mukula said, Odinga was not just a political leader, "he was a revolutionary force, a man of immense courage, unwavering conviction, and unbreakable faith in the destiny of Africa. His life was a continuous struggle for justice, democracy, and the dignity of his people. He embodied the spirit of resistance and the hope of renewal.”

Mukala revealed that he had the honour and privilege of knowing him personally for many years, and in recent times, “we were in touch almost daily. In our conversations, he often spoke with unmatched clarity about Africa’s future, a future anchored in unity, economic independence, and the empowerment of her people. Even in his later years, his mind remained razor sharp, his heart full of compassion, and his spirit unyielding.”

According to Mukula,” Raila was a Pan-Africanist in the truest sense of the word. He believed that Africa’s destiny must be shaped by Africans themselves, through solidarity, vision, and shared purpose. He stood shoulder to shoulder with liberation icons, from Nelson Mandela to Julius Nyerere, and carried forward their torch of freedom with steadfast integrity.”

Regional tributes

At the time of publishing this story, several Kenyans had thronged Raila's residence in Opoda, Bondo, to condole with the family. A sombre mood had engulfed Nairobi as Raila's supporters from Kayole embarked on a march to town, paying tribute to the fallen opposition icon.

Former Kenyan Vice-President Rigathi Gachagua.

Former Kenyan Vice-President Rigathi Gachagua said: A hero of our 2nd liberation, courageous, resilient and devoted to democracy. Though we differed politically, I admired your strength and leadership. You live on, Baba. RIP.

African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also mourned Raila Odinga, describing him as a great leader and defender of democracy in Kenya and Africa.

African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

"Odinga was a towering figure in Kenya’s political life and a steadfast champion of democracy, good governance, and people-centred development. His decades-long commitment to justice, pluralism, and democratic reform left an indelible mark not only on Kenya but across the African continent. He inspired generations of leaders, including myself, and citizens alike through his courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in the power of dialogue and democratic institutions," a statement from the AU commission reads.