Raila Odinga, the prominent Kenyan opposition figure and former Prime Minister, has passed away at the age of 80 while undergoing medical treatment in India, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
According to Indian authorities, Odinga suddenly collapsed during a walk in Kerala, accompanied by his sister, daughter, and personal physician.
“Both an Indian police security officer and a Kenyan security detail were present at the time. He was immediately transported to a nearby private hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival,” a police official told AFP.
A representative from the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre, where Odinga was receiving care, verified the unfortunate event.
“He experienced respiratory distress and collapsed. CPR was administered promptly, and after brief signs of recovery, he was transferred to a modern hospital nearby. Despite continuous medical efforts, his condition worsened, and the doctors could not revive him,” the hospital spokesperson explained.
Members of Odinga’s political circle also confirmed his demise to AFP, indicating that a formal statement would be issued by his party in due course.
Born on January 7, 1945, Raila Odinga’s early political career was marked by imprisonment and exile under the authoritarian rule of President Daniel arap Moi. A relentless champion of democratic ideals, Odinga played a pivotal role in Kenya’s shift to multi-party democracy during the 1990s.
As the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s inaugural vice president, Raila became a beacon of resistance and reform. Although he contested the presidency five times-in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022-he never secured the office. Nevertheless, he maintained a powerful political presence, especially among the Luo community in western Kenya, where his support was unwavering.
Known for his outspoken opposition to the establishment, Odinga frequently accused the ruling elite of electoral fraud in four of his presidential campaigns. His magnetic personality, boldness, and populist appeal established him as one of Africa’s most influential opposition leaders.
His passing creates a significant gap in Kenya’s political arena, with analysts cautioning that his absence may alter the dynamics of the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Condolences and tributes swiftly emerged from across Kenya and the African continent.
David Maraga, former Chief Justice and presidential hopeful, expressed profound grief, calling Odinga a statesman of continental importance.
“Kenya mourns one of its most impactful leaders who shaped the nation’s path,” Maraga wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Africa has lost a key advocate for peace, security, and progress. The world has lost a remarkable leader.”
From Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed extended his sympathies, stating, “On behalf of the Ethiopian government, I offer heartfelt condolences on the passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga. May he rest in peace.”
For more than 40 years, Raila Odinga was at the forefront of Kenya’s often turbulent political landscape, championing constitutional reforms, spearheading large-scale pro-democracy protests, and building inclusive coalitions that transformed the country’s political culture.
