Former U.S. President Barack Obama has paid tribute to Kenya’s late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a true champion of democracy.
In a message posted on his official X page, Obama hailed Raila Odinga as a leader who dedicated his life to the struggle for freedom and self-governance in Kenya.
“Raila Odinga was a true champion of democracy. A child of independence, he endured decades of struggle and sacrifice for the broader cause of freedom and self-governance in Kenya. Time and again, I personally saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions,” said Barack Obama.
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.
Obama praised the late opposition leader for consistently choosing the path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his values a quality he said made Odinga a role model not only for Kenya, but for Africa and the world.
“Like few other leaders anywhere, he was willing to choose the path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values. Through his life, Raila Odinga set an example not just for Kenyans, but across Africa and around the world. I know he will be missed,” he said.
The former U.S. President added that Raila Odinga will be deeply missed, sending condolences together with former First Lady Michelle Obama to Odinga’s family and the people of Kenya.
