Members of the Ugandan Parliament, led by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, have expressed heartfelt condolences following the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a pan-Africanist, icon, and beacon of hope for democracy in Africa.
Michael Mawanda Maranga, MP for Igara East, said Odinga “was a pan-Africanist, nationalist who loved his country and Africa as a whole”.
“We will miss his counsel; he was looking forward to the unity of Africa, and he has gone at a time when we greatly needed him as a pan-Africanist.”
Bukoto East MP Kanyike Evans added: “It’s unfortunate for democracy in Africa, especially for those fighting for the rule of law. Odinga was a beacon of hope for democratic Africa. Though he never became president of Kenya, he will remain an icon and has inspired many young African leaders.”
Kitgum Municipality MP Denis Oneka highlighted Odinga’s role in promoting peace: “He was a very peace-loving person, and his demise is a big loss in the region. When he spoke about the politics of Kenya, calmness came; when he called for unity, every government listened. He was a person who held Kenya intact.”
However, some MPs criticized aspects of Odinga’s political alliances. Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, MP for Kira Municipality, said: “I am surprised that when Besigye was kidnapped in Kenya, his number one friend Odinga kept quiet and opted to trade his own friends for survival.”
This view was countered by Rosemary Nyakikongoro, Sheema District Woman MP, who defended Odinga’s approach.
“Much as we have opposition in Africa, Odinga was a person who could stop making alliances with ruling governments and could not keep verges with the government in power, unlike in other countries where the opposition distances itself from the ruling party,” Nyakikongoro said.
Raila Amolo Odinga served as MP for Langata Constituency from 1992 to 2013, leader of the opposition, Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, and head of the Azimio One Kenya Coalition Party.
His death on Wednesday at the age of 80 has prompted tributes from leaders across Africa.
