Kenya’s veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, has died at the age of 80 while receiving medical care in India, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
His sudden passing marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics and sends shockwaves across East Africa’s political landscape.
According to Indian police, Odinga was on a health visit and was walking with his sister, daughter, and personal doctor when he collapsed unexpectedly.
“An Indian police security officer and a Kenyan security officer were also present. He was immediately rushed to a nearby private hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival,” a police source told AFP.
A member of Odinga’s political team also confirmed his death, requesting anonymity pending an official announcement from his party.
A Lifelong Opposition Leader and Defender of Democracy
Born on January 7, 1945, Odinga was the perennial opposition figure in Kenyan politics, contesting the presidency five times — in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022 — without success.
Despite his losses, he remained one of Kenya’s most influential politicians, revered for his resilience and ability to mobilize millions, especially from his native western Kenya.
The son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President after independence, Raila Odinga spent much of his early political life in detention and exile, challenging the repressive regime of President Daniel arap Moi.
He positioned himself as a champion of democracy and social justice — a firebrand reformist who fought tirelessly against corruption and political oppression.
His passing leaves a deep void in Kenya’s opposition movement, with uncertainty looming over who might inherit his mantle ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tributes Pour In Across Africa
Reactions to Odinga’s death have poured in from across the continent. Kenya’s former Chief Justice and current presidential hopeful, David Maraga, described him as:
“A patriot, a pan-Africanist, a democrat, and a leader who made immense contributions to Kenya’s and Africa’s democracy.”
He added:
“Kenya has lost one of its most formidable leaders. Africa has lost a leading voice for peace, security, and development. The world has lost a great statesman.”
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also expressed condolences on X (formerly Twitter):
“On behalf of the Government of Ethiopia, I extend my sincere condolences on the passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga. May he rest in peace.”
A spokesman for the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Kerala, India, confirmed the tragic incident, stating that Odinga experienced breathing difficulties and collapsed before being rushed to a nearby hospital.
“Despite repeated efforts by the medical team, his condition deteriorated and he could not be revived,” the spokesman said.
Raila Odinga’s death closes a monumental chapter in Kenya’s political history — one defined by courage, conviction, and an unyielding pursuit of justice. His legacy as a symbol of democratic struggle will endure for generations across Africa.
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