Raila Odinga: The End of an Era for Kenya’s Political Icon

 

Kenya is mourning the death of Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, the former Prime Minister and one of the nation’s most influential political figures, who passed away in Kochi, India, at the age of 80.

According to reports, Odinga collapsed during a morning walk at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre, where he had been receiving treatment. Efforts by doctors to resuscitate him proved unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead shortly after 8:00 a.m. local time. He was accompanied by close family members, including his sister, daughter, and personal doctor.

Following news of his passing, Kenyans from all walks of life flocked to his Karen residence in Nairobi to pay their respects, while political leaders from across the spectrum including President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki visited the family to offer their condolences.

Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu County, Raila Odinga was the son of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and Mary Juma Odinga. His upbringing in a politically active family set the stage for a life defined by courage, conviction, and sacrifice.

A Journey of Struggle and Resilience

Raila Odinga’s political life was deeply intertwined with Kenya’s fight for democracy. During the single-party rule of President Daniel arap Moi, Odinga emerged as a fearless advocate for multi-party democracy. In 1982, he was detained without trial over allegations of involvement in a coup attempt, spending nearly a decade between detentions a period that only strengthened his resolve to fight for political freedom.

When Kenya embraced multi-party politics in the early 1990s, Odinga became a central figure in opposition politics. He served as Member of Parliament for Langata from 1992 to 2013 and played a key role in constitutional reforms that shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.

His leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) cemented his place as a major political force. In the aftermath of the disputed 2007 general election, Odinga’s negotiations helped usher in the Grand Coalition Government, where he served as Prime Minister alongside President Mwai Kibaki. The power-sharing deal restored stability after one of Kenya’s darkest political moments.

Despite multiple unsuccessful presidential bids in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022, Raila remained a unifying national figure respected even by rivals for his persistence, patriotism, and vision for a more equitable Kenya.

Legacy Beyond Politics

Beyond the campaign trail, Odinga was a reformist and Pan-Africanist, advocating for youth empowerment, devolution, and good governance. His influence extended far beyond Kenya’s borders, where he was recognized as a voice for democracy and African unity.

In 2025, shortly before his death, Raila made history once again by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with President William Ruto to promote national dialogue and political cooperation a move widely seen as a symbol of reconciliation and statesmanship.

A Nation in Mourning

As tributes pour in from leaders and citizens alike, Kenya reflects on the life of a man who inspired hope through decades of struggle. From detention to the Prime Minister’s office, Raila Odinga’s journey mirrored Kenya’s path toward democracy marked by sacrifice, courage, and unwavering belief in justice.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family and government in the coming days.

Raila Odinga’s name will forever be etched in Kenya’s history not only as a politician but as a symbol of resilience, reform, and the relentless pursuit of a better Kenya.
Reporting by: Babz Abdul Raheem N.
Date: October 15, 2025