Barack Obama finally mourns Raila’s death after criticism from Kenyans
Former US President Barack Obama has broken his silence on the death of Kenya’s opposition leader and statesman, Raila Odinga, three days after the former prime minister died in India.
Obama’s belated tribute, released on Saturday, October 19, 2025, follows mounting criticism from Kenyans who had questioned his silence, given his deep ancestral ties to Siaya County — the same region where Raila was born and will be laid to rest.
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In a statement shared on his official platforms, Obama described Raila as a true champion of democracy who dedicated his life to Kenya’s freedom and political reform.
“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,” Obama wrote.
“Time and again, I personally saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions. 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. Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya.”
Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80, while receiving treatment in India.
His passing sent shockwaves across Africa, with tributes pouring in from presidents, international organisations, and long-time political allies.
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But the absence of a statement from Obama immediately after Raila’s death, whose late father, Barack Obama Sr., was also from Siaya, quickly became a point of contention on Kenyan social media.
Many users argued that the former US president owed a public acknowledgement to a man widely regarded as one of Africa’s foremost champions of democracy.
Obama’s eventual tribute appeared to strike a conciliatory tone, celebrating Raila Odinga’s legacy of forgiveness, resilience, and reform — qualities that helped shape Kenya’s democratic evolution over five decades.
As Kenya prepares for a state funeral in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday, October 19, 2025, many observers see Obama’s statement as both a personal and historical reflection — a farewell from one son of Siaya to another who helped define the nation’s political destiny.
