FORMER U.S. President Barack Obama Has Paid A Moving Tribute To Kenyan Opposition Leader Raila Odinga, Hailing Him As A "Hero Of Democracy" Who Championed Justice And Equality Across Kenya And Africa. In An Instagram Post Shared On Saturday, October 18, 2025, Obama Extended Condolences To Kenyans, Accompanied By A Photo Of Himself And Michelle Obama Alongside Raila And His Wife Ida Odinga.
Obama, Whose Father Hailed From Kenya’s Siaya County, Recalled Raila’s Legacy As A "Child Of The Freedom Struggle," Noting How His Father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Was Tortured By Colonial Authorities While Demanding Kenya’s Independence In 1952. "Time And Again, I Witnessed Him Prioritize The Nation’s Interests Over His Own," Obama Wrote. "Like Few Leaders Globally, He Chose Reconciliation And Peace Even After Difficult Times."
The Former President Reminisced About Raila’s Warm Reception During His First Visit To Kenya As Illinois Senator In 2006, Under President Mwai Kibaki’s Administration. Raila Personally Accompanied Obama To His Ancestral Village Of Kogelo, Where They Visited His Grandmother, Sarah Obama.
"Throughout His Life, Raila Set A Profound Example Of Leadership—Not Just For Kenyans And Africans, But For The World," Obama Added. "Many Will Miss Him And Remember Him Deeply. Michelle And I Send Our Heartfelt Condolences To His Family And All Kenyans."
The Tribute Underscores Raila Odinga’s Enduring Impact On African Democracy And His Personal Bond With The Obama Family, Resonating Across The Continent.
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