Kenya is in mourning following the death of one of its most influential and enduring political figures — Raila Amollo Odinga. The former Prime Minister and veteran opposition leader passed away on the morning of Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk. He was 80.
The news sent shockwaves across the nation, with an outpouring of grief from both supporters and political rivals who recognised his unmatched role in shaping Kenya’s modern political landscape.
A life dedicated to the Nation
Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu County, Raila Odinga was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and a founding father of the republic. He carried on that legacy, becoming a symbol of democratic resistance and political reform for over four decades.
Raila pursued his education in Germany, studying at the Herder Institute and later the Technical School of Magdeburg. He was an engineer by training but a politician at heart.
He served as Prime Minister of Kenya from 2008 to 2013, following a power-sharing deal after the disputed 2007 elections. He was also a long-serving Member of Parliament for Lang’ata (1992–2013) and the Leader of the Opposition until his death. Odinga vied for the presidency five times — in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022 — and although he never became President, he remained one of the most powerful voices in Kenyan politics.
The people’s voice and champion of devolution
Odinga was a passionate advocate for social democracy, devolution, and constitutional reform. He played a major role in the push for Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, which introduced the devolved system of governance — aimed at ending marginalisation and promoting equitable distribution of national resources.
His calls for reforms often resonated with the youth, the underprivileged, and communities feeling left behind by successive governments.
While widely praised for his political vision, he also courted controversy, especially with his stance on social issues. Notably, his remarks on LGBTQ+ rights drew criticism, though his office later clarified his position as upholding the constitution rather than inciting discrimination.
Family and personal life
Raila was married to Ida Betty Odinga, an educator and activist, since 1973. Together, they had four children: the late Fidel Odinga, Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie Odinga.
The family has endured its share of public and private battles — including the sudden death of Fidel in 2015 and Rosemary’s near-blinding illness that ended her early political ambitions.
Despite these challenges, the Odingas remained a symbol of resilience and public service.
