Sunday 27th April, 2025 07:32 AM|

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Francis Ngaru, husband to former East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament, Mumbi Ngaru.

In a statement posted on his X account on Sunday, April 27, 2025, Raila shared his grief alongside that of his wife, Mama Ida Odinga, describing the late Ngaru as a close friend and patriot who served Kenya diligently in various capacities.

“Mama Ida and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. Francis Ngaru. Dr. Ngaru is the husband of our dear friend and comrade of many decades, Hon Mumbi Ngaru,” Raila stated.

The former Prime Minister revealed that his personal friendship with the late Ngaru dated back to their days as students in Germany.

“Dr. Ngaru, too, was a close friend in his own right who I met many years ago while studying in Germany. He was a patriot who served our nation diligently in various spheres and capacities, ” he added.

The ODM leader also extended his condolences to the entire Ngaru family, assuring them of his support during this difficult time.

“To the entire Ngaru family, relatives and friends, we condole with you,” Raila said.

He prayed for comfort for the bereaved family, wishing them strength and peace as they mourn their loss.

“May the Almighty God grant the family of Dr. Ngaru grace in this difficult time and rest the soul of Dr. Ngaru in eternal peace,” he added.

The condolence message comes just days after Raila led leaders and mourners in signing a condolence book in honour of the late Pope Francis at the Apostolic Nunciature in Nairobi.

Speaking during his visit to Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Hubertus van Megen on Thursday, April 24, 2025, Raila mourned Pope Francis as a compassionate leader who championed justice and stood with the downtrodden around the world.

“He was a very gentle person; he struggled to pray for the world. Each time there were troubles or problems anywhere in the world, he was the voice of reason, he spoke for the downtrodden and against injustice,” Raila said.

“I hope the Catholic Church gets another Pope like him. I am not a Catholic, but I am a Christian and a friend of Catholics. That is why we have all been pained by the loss of Pope Francis. As the Speaker said, he is the first Pope from the Global South and he exemplified the spirit of hope, reconciliation, and compassion,” he added.