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President William Samoei Ruto has announced the passing of the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, E.G.H., Kenya’s former Prime Minister, describing him as “a titan of conscience, a visionary of uncommon resolve, and a defender of the defenceless.”
In a solemn proclamation issued from State House, Nairobi, the President confirmed that Raila Odinga passed away this morning in India, where he was undergoing medical treatment.
The Head of State declared a period of national mourning from today until the day of Odinga’s interment, during which the national flag will fly at half-mast across all public institutions, military facilities, and diplomatic missions worldwide.
“It is with profound sorrow and the deepest sense of loss that I discharge my solemn duty to notify Kenya, Africa, and the world of the passing of The Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga,” President Ruto said.
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A life devoted to democracy and justice
Born on January 7, 1945, Raila Odinga dedicated his life to the pursuit of freedom, democracy, and justice in Kenya.
From his early years as a university lecturer and political reformer, Odinga emerged as one of the most consequential figures in Kenya’s modern history — a leader who consistently challenged authoritarianism and championed the rights of ordinary citizens.
President Ruto described him as “the father of our democracy, a tireless champion for social justice, a renowned Pan-Africanist, and a statesman without equal.”
Kenya’s indomitable opposition leader
For over three decades, Raila Odinga personified opposition politics in Kenya. His political journey was marked by resilience, defiance, and an unwavering belief in democratic ideals.
He stood fearlessly against one-party rule in the 1980s and 1990s, enduring detention and persecution under the KANU regime while calling for multiparty democracy. As the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Odinga became the face of political opposition — consistently holding those in power accountable, shaping national discourse, and amplifying the voice of the people.
“His was a voice that fearlessly spoke truth to power, championed reform, and summoned us always to the higher ideals of nationhood,” President Ruto noted.
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Through his spirited campaigns and tireless advocacy, Odinga transformed opposition politics from mere dissent into a legitimate, patriotic instrument for national accountability. His ability to mobilize millions, inspire civic engagement, and remain steadfast in defeat earned him admiration across the political divide.
As the Leader of the Opposition, Raila Odinga not only provided checks and balances to government excesses but also shaped key policy debates — from devolution and electoral reform to governance transparency and national unity.
He proved that opposition was not an act of defiance, but a pillar of democracy.
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Architect of reform and national healing
Raila Odinga’s central role in Kenya’s Second Liberation and the negotiation of the National Accord (2008) — which ended post-election violence — remains one of his most enduring legacies.
As Kenya’s second Prime Minister, he worked to stabilize a divided nation, leading reconciliation efforts and spearheading reforms that culminated in the Constitution of Kenya (2010).
“Kenya is undoubtedly a much better place today because of the struggles, sacrifice, leadership, vision, and courage of a son of the soil who never tired in the pursuit of a better Kenya,” the President said.
A statesman, family man, and Pan-Africanist
Beyond politics, Raila Odinga was a Pan-African visionary who championed regional integration and democratic governance across the continent.
He was a devoted husband to Mama Idah Odinga and a loving father to Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie Odinga. President Ruto lauded his humanity and humility, noting that he was “an avid football enthusiast and an earnest friend to many.”
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Honours and final farewell
To honour his legacy, President Ruto directed that Raila Odinga be accorded a State Funeral with full military honours.
During the mourning period:
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The national flag will fly at half-mast across all government offices, military installations, and diplomatic missions.
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Senior state officials are directed not to fly the national flag on their vehicles.
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The mourning period will continue until sunset on the day of interment.
“May Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s family be comforted; may his memory be honoured; and may his example be emulated,” President Ruto said.
A legacy that will endure
Raila Odinga’s passing marks the end of an era — the departure of a man whose courage and conviction redefined opposition politics, expanded the democratic space, and inspired hope for generations.
He will be remembered as a symbol of resistance, reform, and resilience — a leader who never stopped believing that Kenya could rise beyond division to become a nation of justice, equity, and shared prosperity.
