Pan-African Parliament President Charumbira Mourns Raila Odinga, Lauds His Fight for African Unity
Tendai Keith Guvamombe
MIDRAND, SOUTH AFRICA—The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has delivered a powerful and emotional tribute following the untimely death of Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, the former Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
In a statement released by H.E. Chief Fortune Zephania Charumbira, President of the PAP, Odinga’s death was lamented as a “tragic and irreplaceable loss” not just for Kenyans, but for the entire continent.
A Beacon of Democracy and HopeSpeaking on behalf of the PAP Bureau and its members, President Charumbira extended the deepest condolences to the Odinga family, the Government, and the Parliament of Kenya.
The statement honored Odinga as a cherished leader and a “transcendental force in the landscape of African politics.”
“Rt. Hon. Odinga symbolised the spirit of resilience and enduring hope for a better Kenya and a better Africa,” the President stated.
Odinga was celebrated as a “sonorous and fearless voice for the voiceless,” whose unwavering commitment to good governance, democracy, and human rights actively “decimated barriers of inequity,” ensuring the marginalized were heard and respected, in line with the PAP’s core ideals.
Champion of Continental IntegrationThe tribute also highlighted Odinga’s crucial role in advancing continental integration.
Throughout his illustrious career, he championed unity beyond national issues, most notably through his position as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa.
This role underscored his dedication to fostering durable unity and practical development across African nations.
As Africa mourns this legend, Chief Charumbira urged all to draw strength from the legacy of courage, tenacity, and unyielding belief in dialogue and the transformative strength of African unity that Odinga left behind.
“May we all find comfort in honouring the exemplary life of a man who selflessly dedicated himself to the service of our beloved continent. As we reflect on his contributions, let us renew our commitment to the values he championed: justice, democracy, and unity,” the PAP President concluded.
