Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Dr. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, has condoled with the people of Kenya and East Africa on the sudden death of the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and one of Africa’s most respected democratic leaders.
In her message released earlier on Thursday 16th October 2025, Dr. Kadaga described the late Odinga as “a leader of great conviction, whose life long commitment to justice, democracy and the dignity of ordinary people inspired an entire region.”
She recounted fondly a moment of friendship and humility when, during his tenure as Prime Minister, Raila Odinga accepted her invitation to attend a fundraising event for Busoga University in Uganda.
“Despite his busy national schedule, he honoured the invitation and gave his full support. It was a gesture that reflected his humility, generosity, and belief in people-centred leadership,” she recalled.
Condolences to the Odinga Family
Dr. Kadaga extended her heartfelt sympathies to Mrs. Aida Odinga, acknowledging her strength and devotion during her husband’s long public service.
“Mrs. Aida Odinga stood by her husband with exceptional courage through every season of his journey — in peace and in trial. She has been a true companion in the service of the nation and humanity,” Kadaga said.
She also conveyed condolences to the people of Bondo, Siaya County, and the entire Kenyan nation, encouraging them to celebrate Odinga’s life and carry forward his vision.
“The name Raila will remain engraved in the history of Kenya, East Africa, and the world as a symbol of resilience and leadership,” she added.
Concluding her message, Dr Kadaga offered prayers for Odinga’s peaceful rest, noting that his life had profoundly shaped the democratic story of the region.
A Statesman Remembered
Raila Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India, where he had travelled for medical treatment. He was 80 years old. According to reports, he suffered a cardiac arrest while on a morning walk.
His death has drawn an overwhelming outpouring of grief across Kenya and the continent. The Government of Kenya has declared seven days of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast and preparations underway for a state funeral in his home county of Siaya.
Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, following the historic power-sharing agreement that ended post-election violence. His decades-long political career defined the struggle for democracy, constitutional reform, and governance rooted in accountability and fairness.
A Message of Regional Solidarity
Dr. Kadaga emphasised that Odinga’s legacy extends beyond national boundaries, serving as a reminder of the shared destiny that binds East African nations.
“Raila’s vision for an inclusive and united East Africa continues to inspire our region. His leadership reflected values that transcend borders — peace, dialogue, and respect for humanity,” she said.
She noted that Kenya and Uganda share deep ties of friendship, culture, and cooperation within the East African Community (EAC), and that Odinga’s passing strengthens the call for continued regional solidarity.
“In this moment of mourning, Uganda stands with Kenya in honouring a son of Africa who believed in partnership, progress, and the unity of our people,” Kadaga affirmed.
A Lasting Legacy
Raila Odinga’s name will remain synonymous with courage, reform, and leadership in of justice. As leaders and citizens across Africa reflect on his life, Dr. Kadaga called on East Africans to preserve and advance the values .