Raila Odinga Dies at 80

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.

Raila Odinga has passed away at the age of 80, on Wednesday, August 15, 2025.

He's said to have suffered cardiac arrest during his morning walk, he was rushed to a private facility in Koothatukulum, where he was pronounced dead at 9:52am, according to the Indian Time.

The public has been expressing mixed reactions regarding his health and the treatment. Raila Odinga has been receiving treatment at the Southern Indian Hospital in Kochi.

The former Prime Minister has been the cornerstone of Kenyan politics. His role in shaping the nation’s political landscape will never be forgotten. Raila championed the introduction of multi-party democracy during one of the most difficult periods in the country’s history in 1991.

Known as the Father of Democracy, he fought tirelessly for the current Constitution of Kenya. Despite several attempts to ascend to the highest office in the land, he never succeeded, he not only tried to ascend to power in Kenya but in Africa at large latest being AU seat where he lost by a margin.

Raila Odinga hailed from Bondo, Siaya County. He was the son of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, a prominent Kenyan politician.

Raila first came into the limelight after being accused by President Moi’s government of supporting the Kenya Air Force officers involved in the 1982 coup attempt.

Raila Odinga served as the Member of Parliament for Langata and later as the Prime Minister of Kenya between 2008 and 2013, following the disputed 2007 general election. Since then, he had contested the presidential seat several times without success.

Until his death, Raila Odinga served as the Party Leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party — Kenya’s most enduring political party, which has weathered many storms over the years.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was "deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and former Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr. Raila Odinga."

Modi said Raila was a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India.

"I had the privilege of knowing him closely since my days as Chief Minister of Gujarat and our association continued over the years. He had a special affection for India, our culture, values and ancient wisdom," Modi said.

"This was reflected in his efforts to strengthen India-Kenya ties. He particularly admired Ayurveda and traditional medicine systems of India, having witnessed their positive impact on his daughter's health.

"I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and to the people of Kenya in this hour of grief."