Eugine Wabwile 
TANDAO MEDIA NEWS.
Former U.S. President Barack Obama has paid a moving tribute to Kenya’s iconic opposition leader and former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, following his passing at age 80.
In a statement released Saturday, Obama hailed Odinga as a “true champion of democracy” and a beacon of resilience and reconciliation in African politics.Odinga, who died on October 15 while receiving medical treatment in India, was remembered by Obama as a man whose decades-long fight for justice and good governance shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
“Raila Odinga was a child of independence. He endured decades of struggle and sacrifice for the broader cause of freedom and self-governance in Kenya,” Obama said.Having witnessed Odinga’s leadership firsthand, Obama praised his unwavering commitment to national unity even when it meant setting aside personal ambition. “Time and again, I saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own.
He chose peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values.”Obama, whose father was Kenyan, has long held personal ties to the country and its political landscape. His tribute emphasized Odinga’s influence beyond borders: “Raila Odinga set an example not just for Kenyans, but across Africa and around the world. I know he will be missed.”
He concluded with condolences from himself and former First Lady Michelle Obama:“Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya.”Global leaders have joined in mourning Odinga, celebrating his legacy in democracy, Pan-Africanism, and social justice.
A State burial is scheduled for Sunday, October 19, to honor the life of a man who helped shape Kenya’s political destiny.
