Kenya Mourns as Raila Odinga Dies at 80 During Morning Walk in India

Kenya and the entire African continent have been thrown into mourning following the sudden d+ath of veteran opposition leader Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away early Wednesday morning in India at the age of 80. Indian police authorities in Kerala State confirmed the heartbreaking news, marking the end of a remarkable political era defined by resilience, reform, and unyielding commitment to democracy.

According to reports, Odinga was taking his routine morning walk in Kerala alongside his sister, daughter, and personal doctor when he suddenly coll@psed. Krishnan M., Additional Superintendent of Police in Kerala, confirmed that the incident occurred around 7:45 a.m. He revealed that Odinga was also accompanied by both Indian and Kenyan security officers at the time. Despite swift medical intervention, including immediate CPR, the opposition leader could not be revived. He was rushed to a nearby private hospital, where doctors pronounced him d+ad on arrival.

A spokesperson for the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Kerala, where Odinga had been receiving treatment, also confirmed the tragic development. “Around 7:45 a.m., Mr. Raila was on his morning walk when he suddenly experienced breathing difficulties and collapsed,” the spokesperson told AFP. “CPR was immediately administered, and after brief signs of recovery, he was rushed to a modern hospital. Unfortunately, despite several resuscitation efforts, he could not be saved.”

The Kenyan High Commission in India is said to have been informed of the incident, and arrangements are reportedly underway to transport his body back to Nairobi. A senior member of Odinga’s political team, who requested anonymity pending an official family announcement, confirmed that the family is devastated but united in ensuring his legacy is honored in accordance with his wishes.

Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, western Kenya, Raila Odinga was more than just a politician—he was a symbol of resistance and hope for millions of Kenyans. As the son of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila inherited a political legacy steeped in the struggle for independence and justice. Throughout his career, he was celebrated as a fearless advocate for democracy, human rights, and equality, even in the face of repeated persecution and imprisonment.

Odinga’s political journey was one of endurance and defiance. He spent eight years in detention during the oppressive regime of President Daniel arap Moi, accused of involvement in the 1982 coup attempt. Yet, his spirit remained unbroken. Emerging from prison in 1988, he quickly rejoined the pro-democracy movement, pushing for multi-party reforms that eventually ended Moi’s one-party rule in 1991.

In 1992, Odinga was elected as the Member of Parliament for Lang’ata Constituency, marking the beginning of an illustrious and turbulent political career that spanned over three decades. He ran for the presidency five times—1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022—but was never declared the winner. Each election cycle was followed by controversy, allegations of rigging, and deep political divisions. Still, Odinga’s steadfast belief in democracy and electoral justice never wavered.

His most contentious electoral battle came in 2007, a disputed vote that plunged Kenya into one of its darkest chapters, with post-election violence claiming over 1,000 lives and displacing hundreds of thousands. Despite the chaos, Odinga emerged as a national reconciliator, eventually agreeing to serve as Prime Minister in a power-sharing deal with then-President Mwai Kibaki—a move widely hailed as an act of statesmanship that helped restore peace.

Odinga’s leadership style was marked by charisma, passion, and eloquence. He was a master of the political stage, commanding huge crowds and inspiring unwavering loyalty among his supporters. To many, he was known simply as “Baba”—a father figure whose courage and tenacity symbolized the dreams and frustrations of ordinary Kenyans.

His influence extended far beyond Kenyan borders. Odinga was a respected statesman in Africa, often consulted on matters of governance and democracy. He played key roles in peace negotiations across the continent and served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development, where he championed continental connectivity and economic integration.

Despite his advanced age, Odinga remained politically active and outspoken until his final days. His last public appearances reflected a man still deeply concerned about Kenya’s political direction and economic challenges. In recent years, he had also become a strong advocate for youth empowerment, good governance, and unity across ethnic lines.

His unexpected passing has sent shockwaves through Kenya, where citizens from all walks of life have begun gathering outside his residence in Nairobi and at various party offices to pay their respects. Tributes have also poured in from world leaders and African politicians who described him as a “giant of democracy” and a “true Pan-Africanist.”

Kenyan President William Ruto is expected to issue an official statement soon, with government sources suggesting that national mourning may be declared in Odinga’s honor. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), which Odinga founded and led for many years, has expressed “immeasurable sorrow” and pledged to continue his vision for a united and democratic Kenya.

Across social media, messages of grief and gratitude have flooded timelines. Hashtags such as #RIPRailaOdinga, #FarewellBaba, and #KenyaMourns have been trending globally, with thousands sharing photos, videos, and heartfelt tributes celebrating his lifelong dedication to justice and freedom.

For many Kenyans, Raila Odinga was more than a politician—he was the voice of the marginalized, the defender of democracy, and the embodiment of courage in the face of adversity. His story was one of relentless struggle, unfulfilled dreams, and unwavering belief that Kenya’s best days were still ahead.

As the sun sets on his monumental journey, Kenya stands still, mourning not just a leader but a legend whose impact will echo through generations. His d+ath in India may have ended his earthly struggle, but his spirit remains etched in the heart of Africa’s democratic history.

The loss of Raila Amolo Odinga marks the end of an era. From the dark days of dictatorship to the dawn of democratic reform, his name was synonymous with resistance and hope. His final walk in India may have been silent, but the footsteps he left behind will forever guide a nation he loved deeply and fought for tirelessly.