Raila pays tribute to Cuban Revolutionary Icon, Fidel Castro

Cord leader, Raila Odinga has paid tribute to former Cuba President, Fidel Castro who died on Friday night after battling long illness.

"He was one of the most outstanding personalities of the 20th century. Castro was a great friend and true friend of Africa," The ODM leader said in a statement on Saturday.

Raila, said Cuban revolutionary leader had to fight long and bitter wars to attain freedom from colonialism.

Raila also added that Castro was passionate about the African continent and went out of his way to support liberation of African countries.

"Castro stood very firmly on the side of Africans who were fighting for the continent’s liberation from colonialism especially in Congo, Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and South Africa," he said.

The Cord leader said Castro was a source of inspiration and courage for all those who value and fought for freedom.

Also read : 10 THINGS YOU DID NOT KNOW ABOUT FIDEL CASTRO

Amani National Congress leader, Musalia Mudavadi also hailed Castro as an "iconic figure who gave meaning and hope to Third World countries and its people".

He said the former Cuban leader was the voice that revolutionised world affairs for decades, ensuring their concerns were heard.

"His death is an end to an era," he said.

Castro died on Friday aged 90 years, his younger brother Raul and president of Cuba announced to the nation.

Castro has been in poor health since an intestinal ailment nearly killed him in 2006.

The bearded Fidel Castro took power in a 1959 revolution and ruled Cuba for 49 years with a mix of charisma and iron will, becoming one of the most central figures of the Cold War.