Kenyans in Rwanda Reflect On 'Father Figure' Raila Odinga

The death of former Prime Minister of Kenya, Raila Odinga, has drawn condolences from across the country and the Kenyan diaspora. Odinga, re...

The death of former Prime Minister of Kenya, Raila Odinga, has drawn condolences from across the country and the Kenyan diaspora.

Odinga, recognised for his lifelong commitment to democracy and national unity, died on Wednesday morning, October 15, in Kerala, India, where he had been receiving treatment.

Reports indicate that he collapsed during a morning walk at the Ayurvedic facility where he was staying.

The New Times spoke to Kenyans living in Rwanda to gather their reflections on Odinga's legacy. Many expressed a sense of loss and admiration for his decades of service in their country's politics.

Here is what they had to say:

Janet Mwawasi Oben, Kenyan Ambassador to Rwanda

It was completely devastating. Odinga is not just a Kenyan leader; he has been a statesperson and a father figure to many. He played a huge role in the lives of Kenyans, and this news shocked my family and colleagues at the High Commission because it was unexpected, he hadn't been sick for long.

Raila has always been at the forefront of Kenya's democracy. He fought for multiparty democracy when it was risky, championed constitutional reforms, and was instrumental in the 2010 Constitution.

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He has also negotiated peace during election crises, including working with former Presidents Kibaki and Uhuru to maintain national unity. Today, we are benefiting from a broad-based government that promotes peace and cooperation, and his efforts have been central to that.

His legacy to young Kenyans is fearlessness and a commitment to peace. He has shown that conflict brings no gains and that negotiation and diplomacy are key. Even though he never won the presidency, he prioritised Kenya's unity and worked with successive governments for the benefit of all citizens. In that sense, I believe his vision for Kenya has largely been achieved.

Vincent Makokha, Chairperson of Mbembe Association, an organisation of western Kenyans living in Rwanda

I was deeply saddened by Raila Odinga's passing; it's a great loss for Kenya and the African continent. Odinga had taken significant steps toward national unity, especially after joining the government.

He was bringing generations together, removing tribal inclinations, and proving that leadership can come from any side of the country. His goal was for every Kenyan to enjoy the fruits of the nation not based on where they come from or their status, but simply as citizens.

He also played a key role in infrastructure design, especially in connecting Africa through international road networks that now support the African Continental Free Trade Area dream. Odinga is a symbol of justice and inclusion.

He showed that people can fight for their space and be heard in both political and economic spheres. He stood up for those who could not fight for their rights in governance.

Fredrick Krir, a Kenyan restaurant owner in Kigali

Right now, we have lost a great leader, a man who brought democracy to our country. We are really in a mourning period because Raila Odinga was not just a politician; he was a father to us.

He was the one who introduced multi-party democracy in Kenya in 1992 and fought for the rights of the weak, the poor, and the needy. Odinga had won our hearts. Whether you were young, old, or jobless, he made you feel seen. Whenever he called for a meeting, people would always turn up because he belonged to everyone, there was no class with him.

Sadik Ayew, a consultant in agriculture

Raila Odinga was a very influential political figure. He started as a civil servant, then fought for a multiparty state and always stood with the people, advocating for good governance.

I was saddened when I heard of his passing. He commanded a huge support base, especially in Nyanza, and as founder of the opposition party, much of Kenya's political scene revolved around him.

His legacy is perseverance, mentorship, and a commitment to democracy. He helped found multiparty politics, contributed to our constitution, and championed devolution. But his vision was only partly fulfilled. Corruption and mismanagement persist, and some young people feel let down by his later political choices. But still, he will be remembered as an icon that fought for justice and representation.

Kevin Akilah, a lecturer at the University of Global Health Equity

I felt a sudden emptiness when I heard about Raila Odinga's passing.

He did what was right, not what was easy or popular. He defended even his opponents' rights to disagree, and I don't think Kenya will see someone like him for many years.

I attended many of his rallies and youth forums when I was in university. There was always a sense of euphoria. His charisma made it easy to trust him. He radiates love for Kenya and a commitment to truth.

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