People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has mourned the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing his passing as a devastating loss to Kenya, Africa, and the world.In a message to Mama Ida Odinga and the Odinga family, Karua said she received the news of Raila’s death with deep sorrow, noting that his life and legacy had left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
“It is with immense shock and sadness that I have learned of the passing of your husband, father, and our great leader, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga,” Karua said. “Please accept my deepest condolences, and those of countless Kenyans and Africans who mourn alongside you.”
She hailed Raila as a towering statesman whose decades-long struggle for democracy and justice reshaped Kenya’s political landscape.
“Raila Odinga’s journey was one of resilience, courage, and an unwavering belief in the promise of a freer and fairer Kenya. His name will forever be synonymous with the struggle for democracy on the African continent,” she said.
Karua reflected on Raila’s sacrifices, recalling the years he endured imprisonment and exile in the fight for multi-party democracy.
“He endured immense suffering and long separations from his family so that future generations could live in a country anchored on freedom and justice,” she said.
Turning to Mama Ida Odinga, Karua paid tribute to her strength and endurance, acknowledging her steadfast role in Raila’s long and often turbulent political journey.
“Ida, your quiet strength and grace through decades of sacrifice stand as a beacon of resilience. Kenya owes you and your family an eternal debt of gratitude,” she said.
Karua also spoke of her personal and political relationship with Raila, recalling their shared battles for reform and moments of both alliance and opposition.
“For more than three decades, I had the privilege of working alongside him at times as a comrade, at times across the aislebut always in pursuit of a better Kenya,” she noted.
She concluded by calling Raila’s passing a loss beyond borders.
“Kenya and the continent have lost one of their finest sons a voice that never wavered in the pursuit of justice, a leader who stood tall for Africa and her people,” Karua said.
