In a shocking turn of events, Raila Odinga, the iconic Kenyan political leader and former Prime Minister, has passed away at the age of 80. Known as “Baba” and a staunch advocate for democratic reforms, Odinga’s death marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics. He collapsed during a morning walk on October 15, 2025, at an Ayurvedic hospital in Koothattukulam, Kerala, India, and was pronounced dead due to a cardiac arrest shortly after being taken to Devamatha Hospital. His passing has left the nation in mourning, as tributes pour in from political leaders and citizens alike, marking the loss of one of Kenya’s most significant and controversial figures.
On the morning of October 15, 2025, Kenya’s political landscape was shaken by the sudden death of Raila Amolo Odinga, the country’s former Prime Minister and a political figure who shaped much of Kenya’s recent history. His passing, at the age of 80, marks the end of a life devoted to the pursuit of political and electoral reforms, with a legacy deeply embedded in Kenya’s journey to democracy.
The Last Moments of Raila Odinga
Raila Odinga was undergoing treatment at an Ayurvedic hospital in Koothattukulam, India, where he had been receiving care for ongoing health issues. On the morning of his death, Odinga was reportedly taking a walk on the hospital grounds when he suddenly collapsed. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at 9:52 AM IST at Devamatha Hospital. His death has been attributed to cardiac arrest, according to doctors at the facility.
Odinga was in India accompanied by his daughter, Rosemary Odinga, who had previously benefited from Ayurvedic treatment to regain partial eyesight. This journey to India had sparked hopes for improvement in his health; however, the sudden demise of the political titan has left the nation in shock.
Raila Odinga’s Political Legacy
Raila Odinga, often referred to by his supporters as “Baba,” played a significant role in Kenya’s post-independence political landscape. He was the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and has run for president five times, most recently in 2022. Odinga’s political career was characterized by his consistent calls for electoral reform, democracy, and social justice. Despite never winning the presidency, his influence in Kenyan politics remained unparalleled.
He was a key figure during the 2007–2008 post-election violence, after which he brokered a power-sharing agreement with then-President Mwai Kibaki, resulting in his appointment as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. This agreement, facilitated by Kofi Annan and other international mediators, marked a significant moment in Kenya’s political history and ensured the country’s peace during a critical period.
Raila Odinga’s political career was also marked by multiple struggles for electoral justice. His repeated presidential bids were marred by allegations of election fraud, and he became a symbol of resistance against perceived electoral malpractice. He contested in the 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022 elections, and though he was never declared the winner, his determination for a fair electoral system resonated with millions of Kenyans.
From Activism to Political Leadership
Raila Odinga’s roots in activism were shaped by his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first vice president, who fought for the rights of Kenya’s marginalized communities. Raila Odinga’s early life was defined by his education in Germany, where he earned a degree in Welding. Upon returning to Kenya in the early 1970s, he ventured into the business world and later entered politics, where his influence began to grow rapidly.
He became a staunch advocate for multi-party democracy, especially during the 1982 coup attempt, when he was detained by the government for his alleged involvement. His activism for democracy led to his multiple detentions and struggles against Kenya’s authoritarian regime. His eventual release from detention in 1989 led him to become a leading figure in the fight for multi-party democracy, a fight that culminated in his leadership of the Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD) party in the early 1990s.
Key Milestones in Raila Odinga’s Career
- 2007 Presidential Election and Aftermath:
Raila Odinga’s 2007 election bid was one of the most contentious in Kenya’s history, with allegations of election rigging. This led to the 2007–2008 post-election violence, where over 1,000 people died and 250,000 were displaced. The aftermath saw Odinga and President Mwai Kibaki enter a power-sharing agreement, resulting in Odinga’s appointment as Prime Minister. - The 2010 Constitution and Devolution:
A key part of Odinga’s legacy is his role in the passing of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, which introduced devolution — a system designed to decentralize power and ensure regional representation in government. This marked a major shift in Kenya’s governance. - 2017 and the Swearing-in as People’s President:
After losing the 2017 election to President Uhuru Kenyatta, Odinga boycotted the repeat poll and was sworn in as the “People’s President” in a controversial ceremony that sparked nationwide protests. Despite the tumult, this act solidified his status as a leader of resistance and reform.
Family and Personal Life
Raila Odinga was married to Ida Odinga, and together they have four children: Fidel (deceased), Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie. Fidel, their eldest son, tragically passed away in 2015, while Rosemary, who had struggled with eyesight issues, traveled with him to India for medical treatment.
Odinga’s personal life was closely linked to his political career, with his family often sharing in his public and private challenges. His death has left a void not only in his family but in the hearts of millions of Kenyans who viewed him as a leader, mentor, and symbol of hope.
What’s Next for Kenya?
Raila Odinga’s death marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics. His family and supporters now face the painful task of honoring his legacy and continuing the work he started. The political future of Kenya, especially the ODM party, will likely undergo significant shifts, and his passing raises questions about the direction the country will take in the coming years.
As Kenya mourns the loss of Raila Odinga, it is evident that his contributions to the country’s democratic journey and governance reforms will never be forgotten. The question remains: how will Kenya move forward without the leadership of one of its most formidable and visionary politicians?
The Reactions and Tributes
Since the announcement of his death, tributes have poured in from Kenyan political leaders, international figures, and ordinary citizens. The news of his passing has brought the country together in a moment of national grief, as many remember his tireless efforts to shape Kenya’s political landscape.
As Kenya prepares to lay to rest one of its greatest political figures, the world watches to see how the legacy of Raila Odinga will influence future generations and shape the ongoing struggle for democratic governance in Africa.
