Kenya and the entire East African region are mourning the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, a key figure in the country’s political history. Odinga passed away in India at the age of 80 after suffering a heart attack during a morning walk, where he had been receiving medical treatment. His passing marks the end of an era for Kenya a nation he dedicated his whole life to transforming.
Born on January 7, 1945, in Kisumu County, Nyanza region, Raila Odinga was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, and Mary Juma Odinga. Coming from the Luo (Jaruo) tribe, Raila was raised in a home that valued education, courage, and leadership values that would later shape his remarkable political journey.
Early Life and Education
Odinga began his education at Kisumu Union Primary School, the same place where he was born and raised. He later pursued technical studies in Germany, where he graduated with a degree in metal engineering. When he returned to Kenya in 1970, he joined Nairobi University as a lecturer in metalwork and welding, a position he held with pride and dedication.
He later worked for a government agency responsible for monitoring the quality of imported and exported goods in Kenya. However, his passion for justice and governance soon led him to the political arena a path that would define his life.
Raila Odinga’s political career began in the turbulent years of President Daniel arap Moi’s regime. Known for his fearless criticism of government corruption and abuse of power, Odinga became a voice for democracy and human rights.
In 1982, after an attempted coup by soldiers led by Hezekiah Ochuka, Odinga was accused of involvement in the plot. Both he and his father were suspected of supporting the coup attempt. Raila was arrested and detained without trial for six years, enduring harsh conditions in prison.
He was released in 1988, only to be re-arrested later that same year, spending another ten months in detention. Despite these challenges, Odinga never gave up his fight for democracy. Continuous harassment by the regime eventually forced him into exile in Norway, where he was granted citizenship for his safety.
Return to Kenya and Political Legacy
Odinga returned home in 1992, joining the Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD) led by his father. That same year, he was elected Member of Parliament for Langata Constituency, marking the start of his formal political journey.
After his father’s death in 1994, Odinga left FORD and formed the National Development Party (NDP). He contested the 1997 presidential elections, finishing third but gaining a strong national following for his charismatic leadership and reformist vision.
From 2008 to 2013, Raila Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister under a coalition government formed after the disputed 2007 elections. His leadership during that tense period helped stabilize the country and promote unity.
Throughout his political life, Raila Odinga sought to bring fairness and transparency to Kenya’s elections. In 2013, he led the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) alongside Kalonzo Musyoka, but lost to Uhuru Kenyatta of the Jubilee Party.
He tried again in 2017, heading the National Super Alliance (NASA). The elections were marred by irregularities, leading Kenya’s Supreme Court to nullify the results a first in Africa’s history. However, when a repeat election was called, Odinga withdrew, citing lack of transparency in the electoral process. Kenyatta later won unopposed, and Odinga symbolically declared himself the “People’s President.”
The political tension that followed eventually softened when the two leaders famously shook hands in 2018, an act that came to be known as the “Handshake.” This gesture led to the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), a joint effort between Odinga and Kenyatta to unite the country and reform the constitution. Although the BBI faced legal challenges and opposition, it symbolized Odinga’s lifelong commitment to peace and national unity.
In the 2022 elections, Odinga contested again under the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya Coalition, facing off against William Ruto. Despite high expectations, Odinga was defeated once more. Yet, he remained vocal, leading peaceful protests and calling for justice, fair governance, and better living conditions for ordinary Kenyans.
His Final Days and Legacy
Until his last breath, Raila Odinga continued to speak for the voiceless and to push for a more equal Kenya. Many remember him not just as a politician, but as a symbol of resilience, democracy, and courage. His dream of becoming president never materialized, but his influence on Kenya’s political landscape remains unmatched.
As Kenya bids farewell to one of its greatest sons, the region mourns alongside the Odinga family. His story will forever be told of a man who spent his life fighting for freedom, democracy, and unity.
Rest in peace, Raila Amolo Odinga (1945–2025). Your legacy lives on.