Tanzanian’s Suluhu sends message of condolence to Kenyans after Raila’s death
By Faith Lagat, October 15, 2025Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has expressed profound sorrow following the death of veteran Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80 in India.
In a statement posted on X on October 15, 2025, President Suluhu described Odinga as a skilled leader, a pan-African figure, a lover of peace, and a seeker of solutions.
Pan-African remembered
She highlighted that his influence extended beyond Kenya, impacting East Africa and the continent at large.
“Nimepokea kwa masikitiko makubwa taarifa ya kifo cha Mheshimiwa Raila Amolo Odinga. Tumempoteza kiongozi mahiri, Mwanamajumui wa Afrika, mpenda amani na mtafuta suluhu, ambaye ushawishi na upendo wake haukuwa tu ndani ya Kenya, bali Afrika Mashariki na Afrika kwa ujumla. Msiba huu si wa Kenya pekee, bali wetu sote,” she wrote, emphasising the regional significance of his legacy and the collective grief felt beyond Kenyan borders.
Condolences to Kenya
Known for his decades-long fight for democracy and as a five-time presidential contender, Odinga leaves behind a lasting political legacy that has shaped modern Kenya. His passing has sparked widespread mourning across the country, from Nairobi’s busy streets to rural communities in Nyanza.
President Suluhu extended official condolences to Kenya on behalf of the government and people of Tanzania. She addressed President William Ruto, Odinga’s widow Ida Odinga, their children, family members, and all Kenyans.
“Kwa niaba ya Serikali na Wananchi wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania, ninatuma salamu za pole kwa Rais wa Jamhuri ya Kenya, Mheshimiwa Dkt. William Samoei Ruto, Mama Ida Odinga, watoto, familia, ndugu, jamaa, marafiki na wananchi wote wa Kenya kwa msiba huu,” she said, demonstrating solidarity during the period of national mourning.
Suluhu concluded by invoking prayers for comfort and peace, asking for divine strength for those grieving and for Odinga’s soul to rest in a peaceful place.
“Tunaungana kuwaombea kwa Mwenyezi Mungu awajalie subra, faraja na imani katika kipindi hiki, na ailaze roho ya mpendwa wetu, Mheshimiwa Raila Amolo Odinga, mahali pema peponi,” she wrote.