By Samuel Ouma
Kenya’s former Prime Minister and long-time opposition leader, Raila Amolo Odinga is dead. Oding breathed his last while receiving Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala, India, aged 80 years.
Odinga died in the early hours of October 15, 2025. Reports indicate that he collapsed during a morning walk at the Ayurvedic facility in Koothattukulam, located in the Ernakulam district, where he had been undergoing treatment. Despite efforts to revive him, they were unsuccessful.
“Odinga collapsed during a morning walk at the Ayurvedic facility and was quickly taken to a private hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was declared dead around 9:52 am,” an Indian newspaper reported.
Authorities have confirmed that his body is currently being kept at the hospital while arrangements are made.
Raila Odinga, affectionately known as “Baba” by his supporters, was one of Kenya’s most significant political figures, with a career that spanned over four decades. He was renowned for his unwavering commitment to democracy, social justice, and good governance.
He served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 under the Grand Coalition Government, which was formed after the contentious 2007 general elections. During his time in office, he pushed for infrastructure development, constitutional reforms, and national reconciliation efforts that helped guide the country through a period of political strife. He was also an MP for Lang’ata Constituency for 21 years.
Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Raila Odinga was the son of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and he followed in his father’s footsteps as a passionate advocate for democracy. He faced multiple detentions during the fight for multiparty democracy in the 1980s and 1990s, becoming a symbol of resilience and bravery.
Throughout his political career, Raila ran for the presidency five times, coming close to victory on several occasions. His leadership in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and his efforts to unite opposition forces made him a pivotal figure in Kenya’s political scene.
Beyond the realm of politics, Raila was celebrated for his Pan-African vision, his strong advocacy for social equity, and his tireless efforts to uplift marginalized communities. His role in shaping the 2010 Constitution, which brought about devolution and encouraged greater public involvement in governance, stands out as one of his most significant legacies.
The news of his passing has spread throughout Kenya and beyond, with heartfelt tributes flooding in from political leaders, civil society, and everyday citizens who regarded him as a true national icon.
