Raila Odinga: The statesman East Africa needed, and now misses

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OPINION

By Bishop Samuel

Raila Amollo Odinga, born in 1945 in Maseno, Kisumu County, emerged as one of Kenya’s most influential political figures and a towering presence in East African affairs. As the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and a key architect of the country’s independence, Raila inherited a legacy of activism and public service that shaped his own journey through decades of political struggle and reform.

His political career began in the late 1970s and gained momentum in the early 1980s when he became a vocal critic of President Daniel Arap Moi’s authoritarian regime. His alleged involvement in the 1982 coup attempt led to multiple detentions, totalling nearly nine years, and cemented his reputation as a political prisoner and freedom fighter. Raila played a pivotal role in Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy and was instrumental in the formation of several political movements, including the National Development Party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and the Orange Democratic Movement. His leadership during the post-election crisis of 2007 led to a historic power-sharing agreement, making him Kenya’s second Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013.

Throughout his career, Raila contested five presidential elections—1997, 2007, 2013, 2017 and 2022 — each marked by intense political drama and calls for electoral reform. Though he never ascended to the presidency, his influence shaped Kenya’s democratic institutions, including the landmark 2010 Constitution. His legacy is not confined to Kenya alone.

As Prime Minister, Raila was a passionate advocate for regional integration under the East African Community. He championed cross-border infrastructure projects, trade harmonisation, and political cooperation among member states.

His Pan-African ideals resonated with leaders across the region, including Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, who described him as a freedom fighter and a patriotic Pan-Africanist.

Raila’s support for the Northern Corridor Integration Projects—linking Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan—was instrumental in advancing transport, energy, and ICT connectivity across East Africa.

His diplomatic engagements helped ease tensions and fostered a spirit of unity among EAC nations. His relationship with Uganda extended beyond diplomacy. He was a frequent visitor and collaborator on regional development initiatives, supporting joint infrastructure projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway and oil pipeline negotiations.

He also advocated for educational and cultural exchanges between Kenya and Uganda, emphasising the importance of intellectual capital in regional growth.

During his tenure as Prime Minister, Raila made a notable contribution to Busoga University in Uganda. He visited the institution and delivered a keynote address that emphasised the role of higher education in transforming societies. His engagement led to increased collaboration between Kenyan and Ugandan academic institutions, including student exchange programs and joint research initiatives. Raila’s support helped elevate Busoga University’s profile within the region, encouraging investment in educational infrastructure and curriculum development. His Pan-African message inspired students and faculty alike to pursue excellence and regional cooperation.

Raila remained politically active until the mid-2020s, continuing to advocate for electoral justice, constitutional reform, and regional unity.

His final years were marked by reflection and mentorship, as he transitioned from frontline politics to elder statesmanship. Upon his passing in 2025, tributes poured in from across Africa.

He was remembered not just as a Kenyan icon, but as a continental compass—a man whose defeats became moral victories and whose vision transcended borders. His life was a testament to resilience, conviction, and regional solidarity.

His contributions to the East African Community, Uganda’s development, and Busoga University remain etched in the annals of African progress. He may not have worn the presidential crown, but he wore the mantle of a true statesman.

The writer is the head communications and media relations of the Ministry of EAC Uganda