Raila Odinga was a child of independence – Obama

Raila Amolo Odinga died on Wednesday morning from India. His death has still shocked Kenyans, East Africa, Africa and the world.

The former Prime Minister of Kenya died aged 80 as a statesman. He died a gentleman, his daughter who was with him in India, Winnie Odinga said.

Since his passing became public, tributes have poured: from local Kenyans, to those in leadership beyond the borders of Kenya.

On Friday, former US President and a grandson of Kenya, Barack Obama mourned Raila as a “true champion of democracy.”

Obama added that Raila was a child of independence who endured decades of struggle and sacrifice for the broader cause of freedom and self-governance in Kenya.

“Time and again, I personally saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions. Like few other leaders anywhere, he was willing to choose the path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values.

“Through his life, Raila Odinga set an example not just for Kenyans, but across Africa and around the world. I know he will be missed. Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya,” Obama concluded.

The Kenyan government has accorded the former Premier State Funeral with thousands of mourners flooding different stadiums in Kenya to pay their last respects.

BABA, as was fondly called, is the greatest and much loved Kenyan to ever live. He was born on January 7, 1945.

On Sunday, he will be laid to rest following his will to be buried within 72 hours.