Raila Odinga Dies at 80: Kenya Mourns Political Giant
Raila Odinga dies at the age of 80 while receiving treatment in India, marking the end of an era for one of Kenya’s most influential political figures. According to family sources, the former Prime Minister collapsed during a morning walk and was rushed to Devamatha Hospital, where doctors confirmed he had suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite resuscitation efforts, Odinga was declared dead at 09:52 local time.
In recent weeks, speculation about Raila Odinga’s health had circulated online, though his family dismissed reports of serious illness. His passing was officially confirmed by close relatives, sparking an outpouring of grief across Kenya and beyond.
Tributes Pour In from Kenya and the World
Kenyan President William Ruto led the nation in mourning, visiting the Odinga family home in Nairobi to express his condolences to Ida Odinga and their children. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta described Odinga’s death as a moment that “left a silence that echoes across our nation.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him a “towering statesman and a cherished friend of India.”
Across Nairobi and western Kenya—Odinga’s political strongholds—thousands of supporters took to the streets to honor the man they affectionately called “Baba”, “Agwambo”, and “Tinga”. His followers remembered him as a symbol of courage, democracy, and reform.
A Life of Political Struggle and Reform
Odinga’s political journey was defined by resilience. He ran unsuccessfully for the Kenyan presidency five times, often claiming electoral fraud. In 2017, his challenge led to Kenya’s Supreme Court annulling Uhuru Kenyatta’s victory—a historic decision in African democracy.
He later reconciled with Kenyatta in 2018 in a symbolic “handshake” that ended months of political unrest. Earlier, the 2007 disputed election—where Odinga claimed he was cheated—plunged Kenya into violence that left more than 1,200 dead and hundreds of thousands displaced.
A Legacy of Resistance and Reform
A veteran of Kenya’s democracy movement, Odinga was Kenya’s longest-serving political detainee, imprisoned during President Daniel arap Moi’s rule for his opposition to one-party dictatorship. His courage and persistence transformed him into a national icon of resistance.
Even after his defeat in the 2022 election, Odinga continued to advocate for unity, joining Ruto’s broad-based government and backing reforms aimed at national stability. His bid for African Union Commission chairperson earlier this year, though unsuccessful, reflected his enduring regional influence.
Born into a politically prominent family, Raila Odinga was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first vice president. His death leaves a vacuum in Kenyan politics—one that few can fill. His unwavering fight for justice, equality, and democracy cements his place as a true architect of modern Kenya.
The death of Raila Odinga marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Kenya’s political history. For decades, Odinga stood as a towering symbol of democracy, resistance, and reform. His life was defined by resilience, courage, and an unwavering belief in justice for all Kenyans. From his days as a political detainee under Daniel arap Moi’s regime to his role as Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Odinga’s journey reflected the struggle and hope of a nation in pursuit of true democracy.
As news spread that Raila Odinga dies in India at the age of 80, tributes poured in from across the globe. Leaders, citizens, and allies remembered him not only as a politician but as a visionary who dedicated his life to building a fairer and more united Kenya. Despite facing multiple electoral defeats, Odinga remained steadfast, advocating for electoral reforms and the rule of law. His historic handshake with Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018 symbolized his commitment to peace over personal ambition.
Odinga’s passing leaves a void in Kenya’s political landscape, one that will not be easily filled. His influence extended beyond politics—he was a mentor, reformist, and voice for the marginalized. As Kenya mourns its “Baba,” his legacy will continue to inspire future generations to stand firm in the fight for freedom, equality, and national unity.
