Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has died in India after suffering a cardiac arrest while undergoing Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala’s Ernakulam district.
The 80-year-old opposition leader collapsed during a morning walk at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Hospital and Research Centre in Koothattukulam, where he had been receiving treatment for the past five days.
According to medical officials, Mr. Odinga was rushed to a private hospital in Koothattukulam after collapsing but was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m. Indian Time (7:22 a.m. Nairobi time).
“He was brought in unresponsive, and despite our best efforts, we could not revive him,” the hospital stated in an official press briefing.
Raila was accompanied by his daughter Rosemary Odinga, his personal doctor, and close family members at the time of his passing.
Family’s Connection to the Kerala Facility
Raila’s association with the Ayurvedic hospital dates back to 2017, when his daughter Rosemary sought treatment at the same facility after suffering optic nerve damage that led to temporary blindness.
Sources close to the Odinga family say he had chosen the hospital for its renowned holistic healing therapies focusing on mind, body, and spirit balance.
A Political Giant Falls
Raila Odinga’s death marks the end of a five-decade political journey that shaped Kenya’s modern democracy. He served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 under the Grand Coalition Government and remained a prominent opposition leader thereafter.
He was widely respected across Africa for championing multi-party democracy, constitutional reforms, and good governance.
President William Ruto, political leaders, and citizens across Kenya have expressed their condolences, describing Raila as a patriot, statesman, and symbol of resilience.
“Kenya has lost one of its greatest sons. Raila Odinga’s legacy will forever remain in our hearts,” President Ruto said in a condolence message.
Funeral Arrangements
Preparations for Raila Odinga’s body to be flown back to Kenya are underway, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinating with the Kenyan High Commission in New Delhi. A state funeral is expected to be announced soon.
Raila Odinga’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, with candlelight vigils and tributes taking place across Nairobi, Kisumu, and other major towns.
