Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and a towering figure in African politics, passed away this morning at the age of 80 in Koothattukulam, Kerala, India. Authorities confirmed that Odinga suffered a cardiac arrest during his daily morning walk and was pronounced dead at 9:52 AM at Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre.
Odinga, who arrived in Koothattukulam six days ago with his daughter and close family members, had been undergoing treatment at the renowned Ayurvedic facility, which previously aided his daughter in restoring her vision. The veteran politician collapsed within the hospital premises during his routine morning walk and was rushed to the medical facility, where doctors were unable to revive him.
A doyen of Kenyan politics
Raila Odinga, often referred to as “Baba” by his supporters, was a central figure in Kenya’s political landscape for over four decades. Serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, he played a pivotal role in navigating Kenya through a turbulent period of post-election violence in 2007–08.
His leadership in brokering a power-sharing agreement with then-President Mwai Kibaki was instrumental in restoring stability and paving the way for constitutional reforms that reshaped Kenya’s governance.
As the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Odinga was a fierce advocate for democracy, social justice, and grassroots empowerment. Known for his electrifying speeches and unrelenting commitment to reform, he contested the Kenyan presidency five times—in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2018, and 2022—but never secured the office. Despite these electoral setbacks, Odinga’s influence remained unmatched, earning him a reputation as a resilient opposition leader and a champion of the marginalised.
Odinga’s political journey began in the 1980s as a vocal critic of Kenya’s one-party state under President Daniel arap Moi. His activism led to multiple detentions, cementing his status as a fearless advocate for multi-party democracy. In 1992, he joined parliament, and his subsequent roles, including Minister for Energy and Prime Minister, showcased his ability to bridge divides in a deeply polarised nation.
His international stature grew through his work as a mediator and advocate for African unity. Odinga’s recent years were marked by his continued engagement in Kenyan politics, including his role as a key opposition figure and his efforts to strengthen democratic institutions across the continent.
