Emotional Appeal from Uganda’s Opposition Leader
Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has made a tearful plea to President Yoweri Museveni, asking to be allowed to travel to Kenya to attend the funeral of his longtime friend and ally, Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away in India earlier this week.
In a powerful statement shared on social media, Besigye said:
“I am begging — I be allowed to attend the funeral of my friend Raila Odinga in Kenya. If Museveni has any humanity left in him, he should let me attend the burial of Raila, then he can kill me afterwards, and I will sleep peacefully.”
The message struck a chord across East Africa, highlighting the deep personal and political bond shared between two men who spent decades fighting for democracy, justice, and human rights in their respective countries.
A Friendship Forged in Struggle
Raila Odinga and Kizza Besigye first met during the early 1990s, both known as fearless reformists challenging long-standing political systems. Their friendship transcended borders, rooted in a shared vision of freedom and integrity in African governance.
Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80, was widely admired across Africa for his resilience and unyielding pursuit of democracy. His death has sent shockwaves across the continent, prompting tributes from leaders and citizens alike.
Besigye’s statement, while emotional, also reflects the tense political climate in Uganda, where he has faced years of house arrest, intimidation, and suppression by security forces loyal to Museveni.
Barriers to Attendance
As preparations continue in Kisumu, where Odinga’s body will be laid to rest, questions have emerged about whether Besigye will be allowed to leave Uganda.
Ugandan authorities have previously restricted his international movements, citing “security concerns.”
Human rights activists and regional observers are urging the Ugandan government to allow Besigye to travel freely, arguing that attending Odinga’s funeral is not a political act but a personal and humanitarian gesture.
Kenya Prepares for a Historic Farewell
Kenya remains in seven days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast. President William Ruto is expected to lead dignitaries, both local and international, in the state funeral that will be held in Kisumu County, Odinga’s home region.
Thousands of mourners have already gathered across the country, paying tribute to the man many affectionately called “Baba.”
Regional Reaction
Messages of condolence have poured in from African leaders, opposition figures, and citizens who viewed Odinga as a continental statesman.
Kizza Besigye’s heartfelt plea adds a deeply human dimension to the political mourning — reminding the world that behind the struggles and speeches are real friendships, love, and loss.
Conclusion
Whether or not Besigye will be allowed to attend Raila Odinga’s burial remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: his words have resonated across East Africa, capturing the shared grief and admiration for a man who shaped generations.
“Then he can kill me afterwards, and I will sleep peacefully.”
Those are not just words of despair — they are the voice of a man who has lost a brother in the long fight for African democracy.