ODM party leader Raila Odinga's final journey to India ended with a nation grappling with grief His family's reassurances clashed with growing public concern as updates on his condition remained closely guarded Raila's political journey was marked with successes and widespread support from Kenyans across political divide
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former prime minister and longtime opposition leader is dead.
Raila passed away at the age of 80 on Wednesday October, 14, at an Ayurvedic eye hospital research centre at Koothattukulam in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, India. Was Raila Odinga sick? Raila travelled to the Asian country for medical treatment in early October 2025.
Initial reports suggested he was slightly indisposed, with family members—particularly his elder brother, Siaya senator Oburu Odinga—assuring the public that Raila was “up and about” and recovering well.
Despite these reassurances, rumours swirled about the severity of his condition. Oburu repeatedly dismissed claims that Raila was critically ill, calling them exaggerated and inaccurate. He emphasised that Raila was undergoing routine medical care and was not in a life-threatening state.His passing marked the end of a political era in Kenya, where he had been a central figure for decades. Throughout his political career, Raila continued to engage with ODM party activities and national discourse, although his public appearances had become less frequent. His health had been a topic of speculation for months, with occasional absences from major events fueling concern. His political journey spanned decades, from his role in Kenya’s second liberation to multiple presidential campaigns. He was known for his resilience, reformist stance, and ability to galvanise mass movements.
His death has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum, with many reflecting on his contributions to democracy, governance, and national unity. Did Raila chat with Senator Oketch? Migori senator Eddy Oketch expressed deep sorrow over Raila’s passing, reflecting on their final conversation just a day before his death.
He recalled receiving a seven-minute phone call filled with instructions—among them, a request to appear on Ramogi TV and deliver messages of unity to the Luo community.
At the time, Oketch believed it was a routine political exchange, but in hindsight, he now sees it as a poignant farewell. The senator admitted feeling overwhelmed and emotionally lost.
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former prime minister and longtime opposition leader is dead.
Raila passed away at the age of 80 on Wednesday October, 14, at an Ayurvedic eye hospital research centre at Koothattukulam in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, India. Was Raila Odinga sick? Raila travelled to the Asian country for medical treatment in early October 2025.
Initial reports suggested he was slightly indisposed, with family members—particularly his elder brother, Siaya senator Oburu Odinga—assuring the public that Raila was “up and about” and recovering well.
Despite these reassurances, rumours swirled about the severity of his condition. Oburu repeatedly dismissed claims that Raila was critically ill, calling them exaggerated and inaccurate. He emphasised that Raila was undergoing routine medical care and was not in a life-threatening state.His passing marked the end of a political era in Kenya, where he had been a central figure for decades. Throughout his political career, Raila continued to engage with ODM party activities and national discourse, although his public appearances had become less frequent. His health had been a topic of speculation for months, with occasional absences from major events fueling concern. His political journey spanned decades, from his role in Kenya’s second liberation to multiple presidential campaigns. He was known for his resilience, reformist stance, and ability to galvanise mass movements.
His death has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum, with many reflecting on his contributions to democracy, governance, and national unity. Did Raila chat with Senator Oketch? Migori senator Eddy Oketch expressed deep sorrow over Raila’s passing, reflecting on their final conversation just a day before his death.
He recalled receiving a seven-minute phone call filled with instructions—among them, a request to appear on Ramogi TV and deliver messages of unity to the Luo community.
At the time, Oketch believed it was a routine political exchange, but in hindsight, he now sees it as a poignant farewell. The senator admitted feeling overwhelmed and emotionally lost.
