Norwegian businessman Rune Engstrom has paid an emotional tribute to the late Raila Odinga, recalling the difficult period when the Kenyan opposition leader lived in exile in Norway during President Daniel arap Moi’s regime.
Engstrom said Raila’s strength and optimism, even in moments of uncertainty, defined the kind of leader he was.
Speaking to reporters, Engstrom described Raila as a man of deep conviction whose courage inspired many beyond Kenya’s borders.
“I hosted his entire family in Norway,” Engstrom said.
“I saw a man filled with relief knowing his loved ones were safe outside Kenya because in those days, no one knew what might happen under Moi’s rule.”
Engstrom revealed that he spoke to Raila just a few weeks before his death.
“I told him I was coming to Kenya. He was in good spirits, as always. His death is world news, and his influence reached far beyond Kenya.”
Raila Odinga fled into exile in the 1980s after multiple detentions for his involvement in Kenya’s pro-democracy movement.
During his stay in Norway, he built strong ties with international allies who supported Kenya’s struggle for political reform and freedom of expression.
Engstrom said Raila’s determination and belief in justice left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
“He never lost hope. Even when far from home, he kept speaking about a free Kenya.”
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