Kenya’s veteran opposition leader, Raila Odinga, has passed away from a cardiac arrest while in India.
President William Ruto confirmed the news to the nation, declaring seven days of national mourning in honour of the late statesman. During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast, and a state funeral will be held to commemorate Odinga’s remarkable contribution to the country.

In his address, President Ruto described Odinga as “a father of democracy and a true patriot who always put Kenya first, regardless of political divides.” He praised Odinga’s lifelong dedication to shaping Kenya’s democratic landscape and advancing freedom across the East African region.

Odinga, who served as Prime Minister in 2007, was a five-time presidential candidate whose charismatic leadership and populist campaigns often came close to unseating the ruling party. Though he never attained the presidency, his political influence transformed Kenya’s governance and inspired generations of reformists. He first rose to prominence during the 2007 presidential election, where he narrowly lost to then-President Mwai Kibaki in a race that redefined the nation’s political history.

News of Odinga’s death sparked an outpouring of grief across Kenya. From major cities to rural towns, citizens took to the streets in mourning, waving flags, lighting candles, and singing songs in tribute to the man many regarded as the people’s leader. Political figures from across the spectrum joined in expressing sorrow and respect.

According to a statement from Deuamth Hospital in Kerala, India, Odinga was rushed to intensive care but did not respond to resuscitation efforts. The announcement of his passing has left the country in deep shock, marking the end of an era for one of Africa’s most enduring champions of democracy.