Church leaders mourns Raila Odinga

The body of the late Raila Odinga at Nyayo National Stadium on October 17, 2025. (Collins Oduor, Standard)

Church leaders across denominations have joined Kenyans in mourning former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a  statesman, reformist, and unyielding

defender of democracy whose life embodied faith, resilience, and service to humanity.

Anglican Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit likened Odinga’s passing to a journey “into the depths.”

He said the late leader had “given voice to the voiceless and turned personal pain into national purpose.” He added,

“Even such a lion-hearted man has now laid down his tools, but Psalm 130 teaches us not to despair to find God even in our sorrow. When leaders fall silent, the voice of prayer must rise.”

The Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Church General Superintendent Bishop Kenneth Adiara paid his tribute calling him “a stalwart leader and champion of justice.” He urged

Kenyans to emulate the late leader’s example of peace and compassion.

“As a nation, let us come together in unity and peace, upholding the values of love, compassion, and service that Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga embodied throughout his life,” Bishop

Adiara said. “May his legacy inspire us to continue striving for a just and prosperous Kenya.”

From the Muslim community, the Jamia Mosque Committee in Nairobi referred him as “a steadfast champion of democracy, justice, and equality.”

The committee pointed his pivotal role in safeguarding Kenya’s religious diversity and his support for the inclusion of Kadhis’ Courts in the Constitution.

“Raila Odinga’s courage, conviction, and vision helped shape Kenya’s democratic journey and inspired generations to believe in a better, more just nation,” the statement read.

“We extend heartfelt condolences to the Odinga family. May the Almighty Allah grant them comfort, and may his legacy of inclusivity continue to guide our country.”

Rev. Calisto Odede, Presiding Bishop of Christ Is the Answer Ministries (CITAM), described Odinga as “a man of exceeding forgiveness and rare humility.”

“He made significant positive contributions to the democratic space in Kenya. Even those who wronged him found forgiveness. His voice often rose above the noise of division to

call for reconciliation, equity, and renewal,” said Rev. Odede.

The Evangelical Alliance of Kenya (EAK) echoed these sentiments, praising Odinga’s “unyielding commitment to justice and democracy.”

The Alliance noted that his leadership was a “journey of great sacrifice and great faith in the promise of a better Kenya.”

The Office of the Presiding Bishop Legion Maria Church also issued a statement mourning the ODM leader as a man whose name has been synonymous with courage and sacrifice for over five decades.

“We have lost a distinguished son of Kenya, a true African statesman, and a gallant servant of the people. We pray for comfort for the family and our nation at large. Rest in peace, Baba,” read a message.

The Church and Clergy of Association of Kenya chairman Bishop Hudson Ndeda eulogized him as a patriotic who worked tirelessly to see Kenya become a better place in terms of social justice.

“We celebrate the passing on of Kenya’s foremost stateman and Pan Africanist per excellence. He will be remembered as a champion of democracy, social dialogue and a man who deeply who loved his country,” said Bsh. Ndeda.