The death of a political giant: Raila Odinga, Kenya's former PM, passes away at 80.
Raila Odinga, a prominent figure in Kenya's political landscape, has left an indelible mark on the country's democracy. His sudden passing at the age of 80 while in India has sent shockwaves through the nation and beyond. But who was this man, and why is his death so significant?
Odinga, a former prime minister and a perennial presidential candidate, was known for his populist campaigns that challenged the status quo. His influence on Kenyan politics was immense, often causing ripples of controversy and inspiring passionate support. The news of his heart attack and subsequent death has left many Kenyans in mourning and sparked reflections on his legacy.
The Devamatha Hospital in Kerala, India, confirmed his passing after he collapsed during a morning walk. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Odinga's heart gave way, leaving behind a nation grappling with the loss of a towering statesman. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned his death, praising Odinga's contributions to democracy. Back in Kenya, mourners, including President William Ruto, gathered at Odinga's home in Nairobi, paying tribute to a man who had recently signed a political pact with Ruto, bringing his opposition party into government policymaking.
Odinga's political journey was marked by his unwavering ambition to lead Kenya as president. He ran five times over three decades, each time rallying significant support. The 2007 election stands out as a pivotal moment; he narrowly lost to Mwai Kibaki in a highly contested race marred by ethnic violence. This election remains a controversial chapter in Kenya's history, with Odinga's camp rejecting the results due to concerns over the electoral authority's reliability.
But here's where it gets controversial: Odinga's activism and political career were not without their critics. In the aftermath of the 2007 election, Kenya descended into chaos as protests erupted and violence spread along ethnic lines. While Odinga was never accused of inciting violence, others, including future presidents Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta, faced criminal charges related to the post-election turmoil. The International Criminal Court's investigation and subsequent withdrawal of charges due to witness intimidation and political interference further fueled debates about justice and accountability.
Odinga's early life was marked by activism and a brush with treason. Born in 1945, he was the son of Kenya's first vice president, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. After studying engineering in East Germany, he returned to Kenya and became a political activist, challenging the one-party rule of President Daniel arap Moi. He was linked to a failed coup attempt in 1982, which led to accusations of treason and a decade of detention. Odinga's resilience and commitment to change, even in the face of adversity, became a defining feature of his character.
After his release, Odinga returned to Kenya in 1992 and won a seat in the national assembly, gaining popularity among those disillusioned with corruption and poverty. His political career saw him serve as energy minister and play a pivotal role in the rise of Mwai Kibaki, who would later become his rival. Despite his age, Odinga's passion for politics never waned, and he continued to be a formidable force in Kenyan politics.
In recent years, Odinga's political endeavors faced setbacks. He lost his fourth and fifth presidential campaigns, and his complaints of electoral fraud in 2022 led to street protests. Earlier in 2025, he was unsuccessful in his bid to lead the African Union Commission. Yet, his impact on Kenya's democracy remains undeniable.
As Kenyans and the world reflect on Odinga's life, the debate over his legacy is sure to continue. Was he a champion of democracy or a controversial figure? Did his activism pave the way for a vibrant multiparty system, or did it contribute to political instability? These questions will undoubtedly spark discussions and differing opinions. What is your take on Raila Odinga's life and political journey? Share your thoughts and contribute to the conversation about this influential African leader.
