Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a “great son of Africa” and a “personal longtime friend.”
In a heartfelt message posted on his official Facebook page, the former Ghanaian leader extended condolences to the people of Kenya, President William Samoei Ruto, and the Odinga family.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the people of the great sisterly nation of Kenya, President William Samoei Ruto, and to the family of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga,” Akufo-Addo wrote.
He recalled with affection the late Odinga’s statesmanship, democratic convictions, and commitment to African unity. Akufo-Addo noted that the news of his death had been received “with widespread sadness across the continent.”
The former president reminisced about Odinga’s presence at his inauguration ceremony on January 7, 2017, describing him as one of the distinguished dignitaries who graced the occasion at Ghana’s Independence Square.
“Aside the many encounters and thought-experiences upon which we held deep convictions, Prime Minister Odinga and I shared mutual values on strengthening democracy and advancing the human rights of Africa’s citizens,” Akufo-Addo said.
He also disclosed Ghana’s active support for Odinga’s 2024 bid to become Chairperson of the African Union Commission—a campaign that saw both President William Ruto and Raila Odinga visit Accra to seek Ghana’s endorsement.
“As a founding member of the African Union, I pledged Ghana’s support, without hesitation, when President Ruto visited Ghana to secure our backing for Prime Minister Odinga’s candidacy. Indeed, he visited me himself in November 2024 as part of his campaign,” Akufo-Addo revealed.
Reflecting on Odinga’s enduring legacy, Akufo-Addo described him as a towering figure whose political and democratic contributions have left “remarkable footprints” on Kenya’s history.
“His remarkable footprints on Kenya’s stability, democracy and history will remain indelible. He will be sorely missed,” the former president concluded.
