Mombasa residents have joined the rest of the country in mourning former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed on early Wednesday, while undergoing medication in India.
Led by a budding politician Charles Mghenyi, the residents described Raila as a selfless statesman who dedicated his life to fighting for democracy, justice and equality in Kenya.
“It is a sad moment in Kenya as the ODM leader, who is also our opposition leader, Raila Odinga, has passed on. Raila has made a great contribution in our country in matters of democracy; he has fought for us. He fought for the democracy that we are enjoying today,” said Mghenyi.
He also cited devolution, multipartyism and the 2010 Constitution as some of the rich legacy that the former PM has left behind adding: “As a youth, Raila Odinga has inspired me to join elective politics. To all people of Mombasa and Kenya at large, it’s a sad moment and we are sending our condolences to the family of Raila Odinga and the ODM family.”
A local politician Abdilkadir Dekow said that he learnt humility from the late politician, adding that Raila was forgiving and a true patriot.
Raila Odinga unsuccessfully ran for president five times (in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022).
He served as Kenya’s Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013. He was also appointed the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development in 2018, a position he held until 2023.
Raila was born on January 7, 1945. He is the son of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and younger brother to Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga.
Raila is widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most influential and experienced political figures. His passing has left a void in the nation’s political and historical landscape.
by Hassan Bahati
