Nairobi, October 15 – Kenya is mourning the passing of Raila Amolo Odinga, the former Prime Minister and one of Africa’s most enduring champions of democracy, who died on Tuesday, October 15, 2025, in Kerala, India, at the age of 80.
Odinga suffered a cardiac arrest while receiving treatment at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre, where he had been undergoing therapy following a mild stroke. Doctors said he collapsed during a morning walk and was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m. local time.
His passing marks the end of a remarkable political career spanning over four decades one defined by courage, defiance, and a lifelong pursuit of justice.
A Lifetime of Political Defiance
Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu County, Raila Odinga was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, and Mary Juma Odinga. After studying mechanical engineering in East Germany, he lectured at the University of Nairobi before joining the struggle against the one-party regime of President Daniel arap Moi.
Detained for years after the 1982 coup attempt, Raila became a symbol of resistance and a central figure in Kenya’s push for multiparty democracy, achieved in 1991. He later served as Member of Parliament for Lang’ata and, after the disputed 2007 election, as Prime Minister (2008–2013) in the coalition government that oversaw the 2010 Constitution introducing devolution and stronger checks on power.
Five Presidential Bids and an Unbroken Spirit
Odinga ran for the presidency five times; 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022 each time alleging electoral irregularities. Though he never captured the presidency, his campaigns inspired millions and reshaped Kenya’s political landscape.
His famous 2018 handshake with then-President Uhuru Kenyatta helped calm political tensions and ushered in a new era of cooperation. Even in later years, Odinga remained a powerful voice for governance reforms, equity, and accountability, admired and criticized in equal measure.
A Continental Politician
Beyond Kenya, Raila’s influence stretched across Africa. As the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development, he championed regional integration through transport and energy networks. His Pan-African vision and advocacy for cooperation and transparency earned him respect among world leaders.
Family and Legacy
Raila was married to Ida Betty Odinga, an educationist and women’s rights advocate. Together they had four children the late Fidel, Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie Odinga. Known affectionately as “Baba,” he was loved for his warmth, humor, and deep connection to ordinary Kenyans.
Raila Odinga’s death closes a monumental chapter in Kenya’s history. Though he never sat in State House, his ideals reshaped the nation’s democracy. To millions, he will forever remain a symbol of resilience, reform, and unyielding hope for a fairer Kenya.
