Africa-Press – Namibia. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said Namibia stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Kenya during this difficult time, following the death of Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister of Kenya, who passed away on Wednesday, at the age of 80.
He allegedly collapsed during a morning walk within the premises of the Ayurvedic facility and was rushed to a private hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was pronounced dead.
A press statement, issued by the press secretary, Jonas Mbambo, President Nandi-Ndaitwah described Odinga as “a distinguished Pan-Africanist who consistently championed the values of democracy, justice, and human rights.”
“I have learned with deep sadness of the passing of the former Prime Minister of Kenya, Raila Odinga, who dedicated his life to the service of his nation. He was a distinguished Pan-Africanist who consistently championed the values of democracy, justice, and human rights,” reads her message.
She extended heartfelt condolences to President William Ruto, Madam Ida Odinga, the bereaved family, and the people of Kenya, affirming Namibia’s solidarity during this difficult time.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Namibia, I extend my heartfelt condolences to my dear brother, President William Ruto, to Mrs Ida Odinga, the children, the entire bereaved family, and to the people of the Republic of Kenya on the loss of the former Prime Minister,” she said.
“I am confident that the people of Kenya will find strength and unity in overcoming this great loss, which has deeply touched not only your nation but the African continent and the world at large.” said President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah.
Background
Raila Amolo Odinga was born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kenya, to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, and Mary Juma. Educated in East Germany, he earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and later lectured at the University of Nairobi. Odinga co-founded East African Spectre, a company manufacturing LPG cylinders, and served as a deputy director at the Kenya Bureau of Standards.
As a prominent opposition leader, Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 following the disputed 2007 elections.
He ran for president five times, alleging electoral injustices, and played a pivotal role in Kenya’s democratic reforms, including the adoption of the 2010 constitution. Known affectionately as “Baba,” Odinga remained a symbol of resilience and hope for many Kenyans, particularly within the Luo community.
Reactions
The Government of Kenya declared seven days of national mourning and announced a state funeral to honor Odinga’s legacy.
President William Ruto hailed him as a “giant of democracy,” acknowledging his lifelong dedication to the nation’s progress.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta and other political figures, including Kalonzo Musyoka, praised Odinga’s commitment to peace and democratic values.
International leaders, such as African Union Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also extended their condolences, recognising Odinga’s contributions to African unity and global diplomacy.
In Kenya, thousands of mourners gathered at Nairobi’s international airport to receive Odinga’s body, disrupting official ceremonies.
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