Museveni's Tribute to a Pan-African Icon

Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has paid a special tribute to Kenya's former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 80. Museveni described Odinga as a "freedom fighter" and a true Pan-Africanist, committed to the unity and integration of the African continent.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, President Museveni expressed profound sadness at Odinga's passing, noting that his life and work mirrored the patriotic spirit of his late father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya's first Vice President.

“Rt. Hon. Odinga has not been just a career politician. He has been a freedom fighter, in the tradition of his late father, Jaramogi Odinga. Ideologically speaking, they have been with the patriotic and Pan-Africanist orientation,” Museveni stated.

A Shared Vision for East African Unity

President Museveni revealed that he had shared ideas with both Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Raila Odinga over the years, emphasizing their mutual vision for unity and integration across East Africa and the broader continent.

“Their sentiments have been for the unity of Kenya, East Africa, and Africa, including always supporting the struggles for the realisation of our dream for the East African Federation,” Museveni noted.

The concept of an East African Federation dates back to the 1960s, with the initial East African Community (EAC) formed in 1967 by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Although the first EAC collapsed in 1977 due to ideological differences and national interests, the vision for a politically federated East Africa was revived with the re-establishment of the EAC in 1999.

Raila Odinga's Enduring Legacy

Raila Odinga, born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Nyanza Province, was a central figure in Kenya's political landscape for over four decades. He served as Kenya's Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, a period that followed the contentious 2007 presidential election and subsequent power-sharing agreement.

Throughout his career, Odinga was a vocal advocate for multi-party democracy, constitutional reform, and social justice, enduring imprisonment and exile for his activism. He was instrumental in the crafting of Kenya's 2010 Constitution, which introduced significant reforms including devolved government.

Beyond Kenya, Odinga championed continental integration, serving as the African Union's High Representative for Infrastructure Development. His commitment to Pan-Africanism was widely acknowledged by leaders across the continent.

Calls for Youth to Continue the Vision

Museveni expressed regret that Odinga's death comes at a critical time when Africa continues to grapple with leadership and integration challenges. He urged young people to emulate Odinga's legacy and carry forward his dream for a united Africa.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya also paid tribute to Odinga, describing him as one of Kenya's greatest sons and a courageous statesman whose sacrifices expanded Kenya's democratic space. Natembeya urged Kenyans to honor Odinga's legacy by upholding the values he lived for—unity, justice, and inclusion.

Unanswered Questions and Next Steps

Raila Odinga passed away in Koothattukulam, Kerala, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk. He had been receiving Ayurvedic treatment at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre. His daughter, Winnie Odinga, confirmed she was by his side in his final moments.

The repatriation of Odinga's body to Kenya is underway, with a state funeral expected to be held. The specific dates for public viewing and burial are yet to be officially confirmed by the family and the government.

Evidence/Data Box

• Date of Death: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• Age at Death: 80 years
• Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest
• Location of Death: Koothattukulam, Kerala, India
• Political Offices Held: Prime Minister of Kenya (2008-2013), Member of Parliament for Langata Constituency (1992-2013), Minister for Energy (2001-2002), Minister of Roads, Public Works and Housing (2003-2005).
• Key Achievements as Prime Minister: Oversaw implementation of Vision 2030, coordinated infrastructure investments including the Mombasa-Nairobi highway expansion, established the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (2009), launched the Kazi Kwa Vijana youth employment program, and mediated the Ivory Coast crisis (2010-2011).
• Economic Impact During Premiership: Kenya's economy rebounded from a 2008 contraction, averaging 5-6% GDP growth annually through 2012.

What to Watch

Kenyans await further announcements regarding the funeral arrangements and national mourning period for the revered leader. The political implications of Odinga's passing, particularly concerning the opposition's future leadership, will be a key area of observation in the coming months.