By Lodu William Odiya
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has expressed a deep sorrow for the passing of Raila Amolo Odinga, EGH, the former Kenyan Prime Minister.
“It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss that I learned of the passing of the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, EGH, the former Prime Minister.
In a statement issued by the presidential press unit, Kiir emphasized that the late was a distinguished Pan Africanist whose lifelong dedication to democracy, justice, and national unity made him an enduring symbol of leadership and integrity in Kenya and across Africa.
“On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Sudan, and on my own behalf, I extend condolences to Your Excellency, the Government and people of Kenya, his beloved wife, Mama Idah Odinga and to the bereaved extended family” the statement partly read.
“We stand with you and the people of Kenya in prayer and solidarity” the statement read.
according to the statement Kiir offered prayers asking the Almighty God to grant comfort to Odinga’s family and to the people of Kenya during this time of mourning, and may his soul rest in peace.
Odinga died on yesterday while receiving medical treatment at a hospital in India.
Reports highlighted that he collapsed during a morning walk and was taken to Devamatha Hospital, which said he had suffered a cardiac arrest.
It said he did not respond to resuscitation measures and was “declared dead at 09:52” local time (04:22 GMT).
In recent weeks, there has been speculation about his health, although family members and political allies had dismissed reports suggesting he was critically ill.
President William Ruto paid tribute to Odinga as a “beacon of courage” and “father of our democracy”.