Kenya is mourning the loss of one of its most influential political figures, Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away in India at the age of 80. The former Prime Minister reportedly suffered a fatal heart attack while receiving treatment in the Indian state of Kerala.
Highlights:
- Raila Odinga died in Koothattukulam, Ernakulam district, India.
- He was undergoing specialized care at Sreedhareeyam Hospital.
- Odinga suffered a heart attack during his morning routine and could not be revived.
- He was accompanied by his daughter and family members at the time.
- Arrangements for the repatriation of his body are being coordinated between Kenyan and Indian authorities.
Main Story
A Nation in Mourning
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s long-serving opposition leader and former Prime Minister, has passed away while seeking medical care in India. The veteran politician, who had traveled to Kerala for treatment at Sreedhareeyam Hospital, died following a heart attack on Wednesday morning in Koothattukulam, Ernakulam district.
According to hospital sources, Odinga had been in India for about a week undergoing therapy for an undisclosed condition. When he suddenly fell ill, he was rushed to Devamata Hospital, but doctors were unable to save his life.
Final Moments in India
Odinga’s daughter and close family members were by his side throughout his treatment. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously referenced Odinga’s stay in Kerala during his Mann Ki Baat radio address, noting the Kenyan leader’s longstanding relationship with Sreedhareeyam’s wellness programs.
Authorities from both nations are now working together to facilitate the repatriation of his remains back to Kenya, where national mourning is expected to be declared.
A Storied Political Journey
Raila Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, uring the coalition government formed after the disputed 2007 general election. A member of parliament for Langata for over two decades (1992–2013), Odinga remained a central figure in Kenya’s political landscape long after leaving office.
Despite contesting the presidency five times, he never clinched the top seat but maintained a loyal following and a reputation as a symbol of reform and democr
Odinga’s passing marks the end of an era a life devoted to politics, reform, and the relentless pursuit of Kenya’s unity and justice.
