Remembering Raila Odinga, the man who defined Kenya's politics

Raila Odinga is dead. The Former Kenyan Prime Minister died early Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in India where he had been undergoing treatment.

He was 80 years old.

According to reports -- Raila collapsed during a morning walk. He was later reported to have suffered a cardiac arrest --before being declared dead.  

The news of Raila's passing has left a dark cloud across Kenya and indeed the world. 

Local and international leaders have moaned Raila as a statesman and leader of no mean repute.

Raila's death has brought unified grief.

President William Ruto on Wednesday announced a seven-day national mourning period for the late Prime Minister, during which the Kenyan flag will be flown at half-mast.

“We have lost one of Africa’s greatest leaders, a giant of democracy, a fearless fighter, and a tireless warrior of good governance,” President Ruto said.

Kenyans and the world will remember Raila as a man who defined the region's politics, leaving an indelible political footprint that many have continued to follow.

In February 2025, Raila, in what would become one of his final high-voltage political engagements, put up a spirited fight as he vied for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship, but was unsuccessful.

Raila served as Kenyan Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 in President Mwai Kibaki’s administration after agreeing to sign a peace accord brokered by former Secretary General of the United Nations, the late Kofi Annan.

Raila unsuccessfully vied for presidency five times, and helped shape and define Kenya's political fabric; from devolution, the 2010 Constitution, human rights, electoral and judicial reforms among other things.

Rest well Baba!