Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has passed away at the age of 80.
He died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk at an Ayurvedic treatment facility in Koothattukulam, Ernakulam district.
Despite immediate efforts to resuscitate him, he was pronounced dead at approximately 9:52 AM local time, according to a spokesperson from the hospital.
Odinga had travelled to India six days earlier to undergo Ayurvedic treatment, reportedly to manage age-related health issues.
Speaking at an ODM event on Thursday, October 9, Raila’s brother Oburu Odinga had confirmed that his brother was indeed sick and receiving treatment, noting that he was on the path of recovery. He, however, dismissed speculations that the former Prime Minister was gravely sick, clarifying that Odinga only suffered a slight illness which forced him to seek medical attention abroad.
“I want to take this opportunity to clarify this, there have been a lot of rumours about our party leader, Raila Odinga, that he is very sick, that he is almost dying and that he is completely out,” Oburu noted.
Adding;
“But I want to tell you that he is out and about, and he is just like any other human being who was indisposed a little, and he is now recuperating and resting, but he was not in those conditions alleged.”
His daughter and other family members were present with him at the time of his collapse. Indian authorities have been notified, and the Foreigners Regional Registration Office is handling the necessary procedures.
In Kenya, the news of Odinga’s death has been met with widespread shock and mourning. He was a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and leading the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
His legacy includes significant contributions to the country’s democratic reforms and his role in advocating for multiparty democracy and constitutional changes.
As of now, there has been no official confirmation from the Odinga family, the ODM party, or the Government of Kenya regarding further details of his passing.
The Kenyan High Commission in New Delhi is coordinating with Indian authorities for the repatriation of his remains.
Further updates are expected.
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