France President Emmanuel Macron has joined the number of world leaders who have paid tribute to Kenya’s former Prime Minister, the late Raila Amolo Odinga.
Odinga, 80, passed away Wednesday morning while undergoing treatment in India.
In his condolence message, the French leader stated that his country joins the Kenyan people in paying tribute to a leader whose courage and commitment shaped the country’s democratic journey.
He eulogized Raila Odinga as a voice for justice, freedom, and a steadfast believer in Africa’s unity and integration.
“His commitment to equality, inclusion reflected the very ideals that inspire democratic societies across the world,” said President Macron.
“In these difficult days, our thoughts are with his family, and with all Kenyans who are mourning the loss of a national figure. France stands beside the people of Kenya in this moment of grief,” he added.
Leaders across the world including former US President Barack Obama have ourned the death of Odinga descrbing him as a towering figure who dedicated his life to democracy and social justice.
Obama hailed Raila Odinga as a leader who dedicated his life to the struggle for freedom and self-governance in Kenya. He said Odinga endured decades of sacrifice for the broader cause of democracy and often placed the interests of the country above his own ambitions.
The late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will be interred at his ancestral home in Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County.
The burial will be a private affair, attended by a select few, as confirmed by his elder brother and Siaya Senator, Dr. Oburu Odinga.
