AU Chairperson Mourns Passing of Raila Odinga, Hails His Pan-African Legacy

By Ginaba Lino
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Raila Amolo Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and long-standing champion of democracy on the African continent.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, Chairperson Youssouf described Odinga as “a towering figure in Kenya’s political life” and “a steadfast champion of democracy, good governance, and people-centered development,” whose influence reached far beyond the borders of his homeland.

“His decades-long commitment to justice, pluralism, and democratic reform left an indelible mark not only on Kenya but across the African continent,” said Youssouf. “He inspired generations of leaders, including myself, through his courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in the power of dialogue and democratic institutions.”

On behalf of the African Union, its organs, and institutions, the Chairperson extended heartfelt condolences to the Odinga family, the Government and people of Kenya, and to all Africans mourning the loss of a continental statesman.

Odinga, who passed away in Kochi, India while receiving medical treatment, also served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, a role in which he championed pan-African connectivity and integration. Youssouf noted Odinga’s instrumental role in laying the groundwork for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and advancing the continent’s broader socio-economic transformation agenda.

“Africa has lost one of its most visionary sons,” Youssouf said. “A leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, democracy, and unity. His legacy will continue to inspire our collective efforts to build a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Africa.”

The African Union joins Kenya and the entire continent in honoring Odinga’s life, service, and enduring legacy.