The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) on October 16, 2025, held a special sitting to pay tribute to Kenya’s former Prime Minister Right Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away recently.
During the session, Rwandan EALA Member, Ambassador Fatuma Ndangiza, delivered one of the most moving tributes, describing Raila Odinga as “a towering giant whose life was dedicated to the service of his people and the African continent.”
Amb. Ndangiza began her remarks by sending heartfelt condolences to the people and government of Kenya, praising Odinga’s lifelong commitment to democracy, justice, and leadership.
“I wish to convey my heartfelt condolences to our sisters and brothers from the Republic of Kenya and to the government for the untimely loss of this towering giant who has committed his life to the service of his people,” she said.
Recalling her personal interaction with Odinga during Kenya’s 2022 General Elections, Amb. Ndangiza said she had the honor of serving as Deputy Head of the EAC Election Observation Mission, under the leadership of the former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, who was the Head of Mission.
“We interacted with high-level political leadership — from the President to the presidential contenders — and we had an engagement with the Right Honorable Raila Odinga on the eve of elections. Those elections were very competitive; there was even a court case on whether to go manual or digital,” she recounted.
She noted that despite the intense political environment, Odinga remained calm, humble, and approachable.
“He was so humble and down to earth. Even after such a stressful election period, he had time for everyone. No wonder he inspired and touched the hearts of many Kenyans,” she added.
Amb. Ndangiza said Raila Odinga’s legacy went beyond political positions, emphasizing that his leadership spirit and patriotism would continue to inspire generations.
“Be comforted that he had a rich legacy — a legacy of leadership. He taught us that being a leader doesn’t require titles. Even if you don’t call him Prime Minister, ‘Baba’ is enough. His name alone stands tall because he made remarkable achievements not only in Kenya but across Africa,” she said.
She also applauded President William Ruto for honoring Odinga with a state funeral that allowed Kenyans and friends of Kenya to mourn and celebrate his life.
“We thank President William Ruto for giving him a befitting state funeral and allowing the Kenyan people and friends of Kenya to mourn him for several days. This is very significant,” she noted.
Describing Odinga as a champion of democracy, constitutional reform, and the father of devolution in Kenya, Amb. Ndangiza said his work had transformed Kenya’s governance and empowered its people.
“You can never talk about the history or politics of Kenya without mentioning Raila Odinga. He was the father of devolution in Kenya — giving power and resources to the people. The Kenyan devolution system remains one of the best models in Africa, and that is part of his legacy,” she emphasized.
Concluding her tribute, Amb. Ndangiza urged Africans to celebrate Odinga’s remarkable life and enduring influence.
“We continue mourning but at the same time celebrating the life of this giant. He has left a footprint in the history and politics of Kenya and Africa. He will continue to inspire the current and future generations. May his soul rest in eternal peace. As Muslims say, to God we belong, and to God we return,” she said.
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