HARGEISA, Somaliland (HornPost) Somaliland’s leaders have mourned former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga. He died in India on Oct. 15, 2025, at the age of 80.
President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), former President Muse Bihi Abdi and political party leaders sent condolences to Kenya. They praised Odinga’s work for democracy and African unity. They also remembered his reported support for Somaliland.
President Irro Pays Tribute to Odinga
President Irro sent condolences to the government and people of Kenya. He described Odinga as a respected African statesman and a friend of Somaliland.
Irro praised Odinga’s commitment to democracy, justice and good governance. He also highlighted Odinga’s understanding of Somaliland’s aspirations for international recognition.
Muse Bihi Remembers a Friend of Somaliland
Former President Muse Bihi Abdi also expressed condolences to Odinga’s family and the people of Kenya.
Bihi described Odinga as a reformer who played an important role in Kenya’s democratic struggle. He said Odinga’s influence extended beyond his own country.
“Raila Odinga was a true friend of Somaliland and a great son of Africa,” Bihi said. He added that Odinga’s commitment to justice would be remembered for generations.
Somaliland Political Parties Express Condolences
Leaders of the Kaah and Kulmiye parties also paid tribute to Odinga.
Kaah Party: Chairman Mohamoud Hashi Abdi sent condolences to Odinga’s wife, Ida Odinga, and the wider family. He praised Odinga’s contribution to democratic reforms and his relationship with Somaliland.
Kulmiye Party: Chairman Mohamed Kaahin Ahmed expressed condolences on behalf of his party. He described Odinga as a champion of democracy and African unity. He also highlighted Odinga’s reported support for Somaliland’s recognition campaign.
Odinga’s Political Career
Raila Odinga was one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures. He served as prime minister from 2008 to 2013.
His appointment followed the disputed 2007 presidential election and the violence that followed. The power-sharing agreement helped establish a coalition government.
Odinga ran for president several times but never won the office. He remained an influential figure in Kenyan politics. He also campaigned for multiparty democracy and constitutional reform.
His Role in African Development
Odinga also served at the continental level. From 2018 to 2023, he was the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development.
In that role, he promoted regional infrastructure projects. He also supported efforts to improve economic links between African countries.
African Leaders Honour Odinga
Kenyan President William Ruto announced seven days of national mourning following Odinga’s death. He also confirmed plans for a state funeral.
Other African leaders paid tribute to Odinga. They included South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Their tributes highlighted Odinga’s role in public service and African cooperation.
Somaliland Sends Condolences to Kenya
Odinga’s death marked the end of a major chapter in Kenyan politics. His political career spanned decades of activism, democratic reform and public service.
Somaliland’s leaders expressed solidarity with Kenya during its period of mourning. They also remembered Odinga’s reported friendship with Somaliland and his contributions to African political life.
Source: Statements attributed to Somaliland’s presidency and political parties.
HornPost Staff Reporter
Email: info@hornpost.com
Website: www.hornpost.com
Hargeisa, Somaliland
