Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye has expressed his condolences to the people of Kenya, President William Ruto, and the family of the late Raila Odinga, following the Kenyan opposition leader’s death on October 15, 2025.
In a message shared on social media, President Ndayishimiye said:
“On behalf of the Government and people of Burundi, and on my own behalf, I extend my heartfelt condolences to President William Ruto, the Odinga family, and the people of Kenya on the passing of Rt Hon Raila Odinga. May God grant comfort to his bereaved family and all Kenyans.”
Odinga, who was 80, passed away in Kochi, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk. Known affectionately as “Baba,” he was a central figure in Kenyan politics, having served as Prime Minister and a Member of Parliament, and was widely respected for his efforts in promoting multiparty democracy and constitutional reforms.
Kenyan President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning and announced that Odinga would be accorded a state funeral. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta described Odinga as “a father to the nation” and a “steadfast champion for the people.”
Leaders across Africa, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, also conveyed their condolences, honoring Odinga’s legacy as a pan-Africanist and advocate for democracy.
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) has announced a special sitting tomorrow to honour Raila Odinga. The session will provide members an opportunity to pay tribute to Odinga’s contributions to regional integration and democracy.
