Kenya’s opposition giant Raila Odinga dies aged 80

Nairobi, Kenya — October 15, 2025: Raila Amolo Odinga, the towering figure of Kenya’s opposition politics for over three decades, has died at the age of 80 while receiving medical treatment in Kochi, India. Hospital officials confirmed that Odinga suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk and was pronounced dead shortly after being admitted to Devamatha Hospital.

A seven-day national mourning period has been declared by President William Ruto, and Odinga will be honored with a state funeral in recognition of his immense contributions to Kenya’s democratic evolution.

🕊️ A Legacy of Resistance and Reform

Odinga, affectionately known as “Baba” (father) by his supporters, was imprisoned multiple times during Kenya’s one-party era and played a pivotal role in ushering in multiparty democracy. He ran for president five times—1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022—coming agonizingly close on several occasions but never clinching the top seat.

His 2007 loss to Mwai Kibaki, amid allegations of electoral fraud, sparked one of Kenya’s darkest chapters, with post-election violence claiming over 1,100 lives. Despite setbacks, Odinga remained a symbol of resilience, often striking alliances with former rivals and serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013.

🏛️ National and Global Tributes

President Ruto praised Odinga as “a patriot who fought for justice and inclusion.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences, calling Odinga “a friend of India and a champion of African democracy”.

Odinga’s body will be flown back to Nairobi later this week, where thousands are expected to pay their respects at Uhuru Park before a state funeral at Kisumu, his ancestral home.