Obama finally pays tribute to Raila
Former US President Barack Obama took to social media early Saturday morning to express his condolences over the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, referring to him as “a true champion of democracy.”
While many appreciated his heartfelt words, the timing of his message—arriving nearly four days after Raila’s death—has sparked a variety of reactions among Kenyans.
“Thank you for mourning with us Wuod America! You can even come, you don’t need security, Kenyans will give you security!” Josh said, echoing the affection that still binds the former president to the country of his father’s birth.
A user named Brian Opar shared, “Your message beautifully highlights the lasting friendship between our nations and the shared democratic values that both you and the late Raila Odinga passionately advocated for.”
“His legacy of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice will continue to inspire generations across Africa and beyond.”
“We acknowledge and appreciate your condolences. However, we cannot overlook the delay in your response during our moment of grief,” Lion of the mountain said.
In his statement, Obama described Raila as a man of sacrifice and resilience.
“Raila Odinga was a true champion of democracy. Time and again, I saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions,” he said.
“Like few other leaders anywhere, he was willing to choose the path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values.”
He mentioned that both he and former First Lady Michelle Obama expressed their heartfelt condolences to the Odinga family and the people of Kenya.
However, while many Kenyans appreciated the message, some social media users raised concerns about the former president’s silence during the emotionally charged days that followed the opposition leader’s passing.
“Finally!!! Thank you so much. It was a huge concern in Africa that you were silent about the death of your kinsman,”Andrew Lubusha wrote, reflecting the sentiments of many who had tagged Obama daily since October 13, the day Raila died in India.
“We were patiently looking out for your comment on Odinga’s death. I hope this is from your heart Barack Obama,” Ben Ekott stated.
“Now that you’ve spoken, please record a video singing Jamaica Farewell. Baba’s favourite song,” a user joked, referencing the Harry Belafonte tune.
Still, others defended Obama’s timing, calling it “respect and strategic patience.”
“As a global statesman & former President of the USA — the most powerful nation in the world — Obama is not just a private citizen. He carries a unique responsibility, and every word or action he takes can have broad diplomatic and emotional ripples,” djxp said.
“It’s likely he chose to wait until the Kenyan Government had better control of the situation before going public with his condolences. This shows not only respect for Kenya’s internal processes but also the wisdom of a seasoned leader. Shrewdness, patience, and timing — these are hallmarks of true leadership. We thank him for his sincere condolences.”
The user added, “May Baba rest in eternal peace. Kenya has lost a giant. The world has lost a voice of reason, resistance, and resilience. RIP Baba, Jakom, Tinga, Agwambo, Rao — The Enigma”.
The outpouring of emotion surrounding Raila’s death has transcended politics and borders. For many Kenyans, Obama’s voice, though late, added a global recognition to their grief.
“Better late than never, Your Excellency. May Baba’s soul rest in eternal peace. Now surprise us by landing at Kisumu International Airport and snake your way to Opoda, we give Jakom a heroic send-off,” Calvin Okoth added.
“Thanks for honoring Baba his last journey cuzo,” Mwalimu Kabul Wuod Jakom said.
Koli West stated, “Finally but then we want you to come over here and give Raila a befitting farewell.”
Obama’s message might have arrived later than some anticipated, but for many Kenyans, it served as a poignant reminder that even from thousands of miles away, Raila’s journey resonated with the world.
Obama finally pays tribute to Raila
