The Final Days of Raila Amollo Odinga: A Nation Mourns Its Political Icon
Kenya and the African continent are mourning the death of Raila Amollo Odinga, the veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, who passed away in India on Wednesday morning while undergoing medical treatment. Odinga, 80, breathed his last at Devamatha Hospital in Ernakulam, Kerala, after collapsing during a morning walk at an Ayurvedic treatment center where he had been admitted for specialized care.
Journey to India for Treatment
Sources close to the Odinga family confirmed that the ODM leader had traveled to India on October 10, accompanied by his daughter Winnie Odinga, a team of personal doctors, and close aides. He had checked into the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Kerala, a facility he was familiar with after his daughter successfully underwent treatment there several years ago.
According to hospital insiders, Odinga sought therapy for chronic conditions including hypertension and diabetes, which had worsened over the past months. His trip was described as a “wellness retreat” meant to help him regain strength before returning to Kenya for political engagements scheduled later this month.
“He was in good spirits when he arrived and often spoke with his doctors about returning home to resume his duties,” said one medical official at the facility. “He remained hopeful and positive throughout his stay.”
The Fateful Morning
On the morning of October 15, Odinga reportedly took his routine walk within the hospital grounds shortly before 8 a.m. local time. Witnesses say he appeared energetic but suddenly collapsed moments later. Medical personnel at the facility rushed to his aid and performed emergency CPR before transferring him to Devamatha Hospital, where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.
Despite extensive efforts by a team of specialists, Odinga was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m. The official cause of death was listed as cardiac arrest. His remains were later transferred to the Kalamassery Government Medical College Hospital for postmortem and preservation, awaiting repatriation to Kenya.
A Quiet End to a Roaring Life
Odinga’s passing marked a somber end to one of the most storied political careers in Africa. Known to millions as “Baba,” he had dominated Kenya’s political landscape for over four decades, leading reform movements, challenging successive governments, and championing democratic ideals.
In what would unknowingly become his final interview before departing Nairobi, Odinga had spoken of his desire for “peaceful politics and generational transition.” Those close to him say his time in India was reflective — a period of rest and prayer.
“Baba was at peace. He spent time talking about unity and the future of Kenya. He was tired, but hopeful,” said a family aide who accompanied him.
Shock and Mourning in Kenya
News of his death sent shockwaves across Kenya, sparking an outpouring of grief and disbelief. President William Ruto led the nation in mourning, describing Odinga as “a statesman whose courage, conviction, and patriotism shaped Kenya’s democracy.” The President announced seven days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast in honor of the fallen leader.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta called him “a mentor, friend, and fearless patriot,” while leaders across Africa, including Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni and Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan, paid tribute to Odinga’s lifelong dedication to Pan-Africanism.
In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, calling Odinga “a bridge between Africa and India, and a symbol of enduring friendship between our peoples.”
Plans for Repatriation and State Funeral
The Kenyan High Commission in New Delhi has begun arrangements to transport Odinga’s body back home, expected to arrive in Nairobi within days. A state funeral committee has been formed to oversee national mourning programs and funeral rites.
According to preliminary plans, Odinga’s body will lie in state at Parliament Buildings before final burial at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.
Legacy of a Democratic Giant
Raila Odinga’s death closes a defining chapter in Kenya’s political history. From his days as a freedom crusader and detainee during the Moi era to his role in the push for multi-party democracy and constitutional reform, Odinga’s influence transcended politics.
He will be remembered as a symbol of resilience, a leader who weathered detention, betrayal, and political defeat yet remained unwavering in his belief in justice and inclusion.
As Kenya mourns, the question that lingers is not only how to honor his memory — but how to carry forward the vision of a man who devoted his entire life to the service of his nation.
“He lived for Kenya, fought for her democracy, and died still believing in her promise.”
