Former President John Dramani Mahama has paid tribute to former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing his passing as “a sad loss to Kenya, Africa, and the world.”
In a heartfelt message shared on his official Facebook page, Mahama extended condolences to Kenyan President William Ruto, Mama Idah Odinga, the Odinga family, and the people of Kenya.
Raila Odinga died on Wednesday, October 15, at the age of 80, while receiving medical treatment in Kochi, India. Reports indicate he suffered a cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead shortly after being rushed to hospital.
A towering figure in Kenyan politics for decades, Odinga was widely respected for his tireless advocacy for democracy and reform. Though he never won the presidency in his five attempts, his influence shaped key political milestones in Kenya, including the reintroduction of multiparty democracy in 1991 and the adoption of a new constitution in 2010.
He also played a central role during the crisis following Kenya’s disputed 2007 elections — a period marked by violence and political upheaval — emerging as a key figure in efforts to stabilize the nation.
Tributes from leaders across Africa and beyond continue to pour in, celebrating Odinga’s enduring legacy as a statesman, reformer, and voice for democratic governance.
