UAE leaders pay tribute to Kenya's veteran politician Raila Odinga

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has led the messages of condolences to Kenyan President Dr. William Samoei Ruto on the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, also shared messages condoling President Ruto.

Odinga, a major figure for decades in Kenyan politics who was once a political prisoner and ran unsuccessfully for president five times, died on Wednesday aged 80 in India, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

His body lies in state at a stadium in Kenya's capital city of Nairobi so his supporters can pay their tributes.

The UAE and Kenya have shared strong bilateral relations, with a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in January to build on the trade momentum and create new opportunities for economic cooperation.

At the time, UAE President said the CEPA will boost trade and investment while also fostering innovation and sustainable growth in key sectors such as agriculture, retail, healthcare, financial services, technology and tourism.