Kenya is in mourning following the death of veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 80.
Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s political landscape for over four decades, died while receiving treatment in Kerala, India, where he had been undergoing Ayurvedic therapy. Reports indicate that he collapsed during a morning walk and succumbed to cardiac arrest, despite efforts by medical teams to resuscitate him.
A Nation in Mourning
President William Ruto announced seven days of national mourning and directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast across all public buildings and diplomatic missions. He also confirmed that Odinga will be accorded a state funeral, honoring his immense contribution to Kenya’s political evolution.
“Raila Odinga’s legacy is woven into the fabric of our nation’s struggle for democracy and justice. He was a patriot, a reformist, and a relentless voice for freedom,” President Ruto said in his statement from State House, Nairobi.
Messages of condolence have poured in from across the African continent and beyond. Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo described Odinga as “a lion of democracy whose roar echoed far beyond Kenya.” South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa called him “a bridge-builder whose vision extended to all of Africa.”
The Life and Legacy of “Baba”
Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu County, Raila Odinga was the son of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. He grew up surrounded by politics and activism, eventually carving his own path as one of the most influential and resilient figures in Kenya’s modern history.
Odinga’s political journey was marked by perseverance and sacrifice. Detained without trial for nearly a decade under the Moi regime, he emerged as a key figure in the struggle for multi-party democracy in the 1990s.
He went on to serve as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 in the coalition government formed after the 2007–2008 post-election crisis. Throughout his career, Odinga ran for the presidency five times—in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022—coming close but never securing the top seat.
Despite electoral setbacks, his influence was undeniable. His famous “handshake” with then-President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018 symbolized a new era of political reconciliation and stability, reshaping Kenya’s political alliances.
A Polarizing Yet Visionary Leader
To his supporters, affectionately known as “Baba”, Odinga was a hero who never gave up on his vision for a just, equitable Kenya. His calls for electoral reform, devolution, and inclusivity inspired generations.
Yet, his political career was not without controversy. Critics often accused him of perpetuating dynastic politics and populist rhetoric. Still, even his detractors acknowledge that Odinga’s contribution to Kenya’s democratic journey remains unmatched.
What Lies Ahead
Odinga’s death leaves a significant vacuum in Kenya’s opposition politics. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the wider Azimio la Umoja coalition now face the monumental task of finding a unifying successor to carry forward his ideals.
Political analysts predict a period of recalibration as Kenya’s opposition landscape adjusts to life without its most enduring figure. Meanwhile, Kenyans from all walks of life are gathering across the nation — in Kisumu, Nairobi, and Mombasa — to pay tribute to the man who defined an era.
A Final Farewell
Raila Odinga’s body is expected to be flown back to Kenya in the coming days for public viewing and national prayers before burial in Bondo, Siaya County.
As the nation mourns, one truth resonates deeply: Raila Odinga was more than a politician — he was a symbol of Kenya’s struggle, resilience, and hope.
“Even in death, his dream for a better Kenya lives on,” said Nairobi resident Mary Atieno during a candlelight vigil at Uhuru Park.
Afripulse Media Group extends heartfelt condolences to the Odinga family and the people of Kenya during this period of loss.
Vision Beyond the Frame.
