Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has paid glowing tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a true Pan-Africanist whose vision continues to shape the continent’s democratic and developmental journey.
Speaking during the Pan African Day 2025 celebrations at Lukenya University in Mtito Andei, Makueni County, Kalonzo praised Raila for championing African unity, economic cooperation, and people-centered leadership. The event was presided over by former Botswana President Seretse Ian Khama.
“For decades, Raila championed African unity, economic cooperation, and leadership that prioritises people,” Kalonzo said, adding that Odinga’s Pan-African ideals were deeply rooted in action rather than rhetoric.
Kalonzo highlighted Raila’s role as the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development, where he worked tirelessly to connect the continent through railway lines, roads, energy corridors, and digital networks. “For Raila, infrastructure was more than development—it was liberation, a living symbol of Pan-African unity,” he said.
The Wiper leader noted that Raila’s spirit of unity and dignity continues to inspire the continent, urging Africans to pursue cooperation over division and self-reliance over dependency.
Kalonzo also drew parallels between Raila’s Pan-African vision and the ongoing wave of Gen Z–led protests sweeping across Africa. He described these youth-driven movements against corruption, impunity, and bad governance as the latest expression of Pan-Africanism.
“This wind of change is the latest expression of Pan-Africanism. The Gen Z–led protests across Africa are a powerful testament to a new generation rising,” he said.
He urged African leaders to respect peaceful demonstrators rather than criminalising them, warning that unlawful arrests and suppression of dissent threaten the continent’s democratic gains.
“Leaders must listen to their people, not silence them. The people of Africa are awake, and the spirit of Pan-Africanism is alive, resilient, and unstoppable,” Kalonzo declared.
