President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the former Prime Minister of Kenya, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a “great son of Africa” and “a very good friend.”
In a heartfelt message shared on his official Facebook page, President Akufo-Addo extended his condolences to the people of Kenya, President William Samoei Ruto, and the bereaved Odinga family following the statesman’s death in India on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Mr. Odinga, aged 80, reportedly died of a heart attack while receiving medical treatment in Kerala.
President Akufo-Addo recounted his long-standing relationship with the late Odinga, highlighting their shared commitment to democratic governance and human rights across the continent. “Aside the many encounters and thought-experiences upon which we held deep convictions, Prime Minister Odinga and I shared mutual values on strengthening democracy and on advancing the human rights of Africa’s citizens,” the President wrote.
He fondly recalled Odinga’s presence at his inauguration on January 7, 2017, at Independence Square in Accra, describing it as a testament to their enduring friendship and mutual respect.
The President also revealed Ghana’s unwavering support for Odinga’s bid to become Chairperson of the African Union Commission in 2024, a campaign that saw the Kenyan statesman visit Accra personally in November of that year.
“His remarkable footprints on Kenya’s stability, democracy and history will remain indelible. He will be sorely missed,” President Akufo-Addo stated, concluding with a solemn prayer: “May his soul find peaceful rest in the Bosom of the Almighty, until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall all meet again. Amen.”
Raila Odinga, affectionately known as “Baba” by his supporters, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics for over three decades. A five-time presidential contender and leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), he was widely respected for his resilience, advocacy for multiparty democracy, and his role in shaping Kenya’s modern political landscape.
His body arrived in Nairobi on Thursday under tight security, ahead of a state funeral announced by President Ruto.
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