Kampala — Buganda Kingdom’s Katikkiro, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, has expressed deep sorrow following the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a visionary leader and a long-time friend of Buganda.

In an official condolence message released Wednesday, Mayiga said the news of Odinga’s passing “has been received with sadness,” noting that the Odinga family’s connection with Buganda’s Royal Family dates back several generations.

“The Odinga family has had a long and close relationship with Buganda’s Royal Family, right from the days of Ssekabaka Edward Muteesa II to date,” Mayiga said.

He hailed Raila Odinga’s lifelong contribution to Kenya’s political and constitutional development, describing him as “a great statesman who stood firm for democracy and the rights of the people.”

“Mr Raila Odinga has contributed significantly to Kenya’s political processes and constitutional development. He has also been a strong businessman,” the Katikkiro added.

Mayiga extended condolences to Odinga’s family, the people of Kenya, and East Africans at large.

“I express my condolences to members of his family, friends, Kenyans, and all East Africans. May the Lord receive his soul,” he said.

Odinga, 80, passed away on Wednesday morning in Kerala, India, where he had been receiving Ayurvedic treatment.

His death has been met with widespread tributes across Africa, reflecting his legacy as one of the continent’s most enduring opposition leaders and reform advocates.

By ChimpReport