Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga has died at the age of 80 while on a medical visit to India, local police confirmed on Wednesday — a development that marks a major turning point in the East African nation’s political landscape.
Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics for decades, was widely regarded as the country’s perennial opposition leader. He ran unsuccessfully for the presidency on five occasions, most recently in 2022, yet remained an influential force capable of mobilising huge support, particularly from his native western Kenya.
According to Indian police, Odinga was walking with his sister, daughter, and personal doctor when he suddenly collapsed.
“An Indian police security officer and a Kenyan security officer were also with them at the time. He was rushed to a nearby private hospital, but was declared dead,” a police source told AFP.
His death was also confirmed by a member of his political team, who requested anonymity pending an official announcement from his party.
Born on 7 January 1945, Odinga devoted most of his adult life to politics, enduring imprisonment and exile during his pro-democracy struggle against the autocratic rule of former President Daniel arap Moi.
A member of Kenya’s Luo ethnic group, he entered parliament in 1992 and went on to contest the presidency in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022, claiming electoral malpractice in the last four elections.
Despite being part of one of Kenya’s most prominent political families — his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, served as the country’s first vice-president after independence in 1963 — Raila Odinga consistently positioned himself as an anti-establishment reformer and a champion of democratic governance.
His passing leaves a significant leadership vacuum within Kenya’s opposition. Analysts say it is uncertain whether any of his political allies possess the charisma and influence needed to unify the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kenya’s former Chief Justice and current presidential candidate, David Maraga, said he was “shocked” by news of Odinga’s death.
“Odinga was a patriot, a pan-Africanist, a democrat and a leader who made significant contributions to democracy in Kenya and across Africa,” Maraga wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“Kenya has lost one of its most formidable leaders who shaped the trajectory of our beloved country. Africa has lost a leading voice for peace, security and development. The world has lost a great leader,” he added.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also extended condolences on behalf of his government, writing on X: “I extend my sincere condolences on the passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga. May he rest in peace.”
A spokesperson for the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Kerala, India, where Odinga had been receiving care, confirmed the incident.
“He experienced breathing difficulties and collapsed. He was given CPR immediately, and when some signs of recovery appeared, he was rushed to the nearest hospital. Despite the doctors’ best efforts, he could not be saved,” the spokesman said.
Odinga’s death is expected to trigger a period of national mourning in Kenya, where he is revered by many as a tireless advocate for democracy and social justice.
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