• Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has died at the age of 80 from a heart attack in India.
• His death has triggered national mourning in Kenya, with President William Ruto declaring seven days of remembrance.
• Odinga was a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, known for his role in promoting multi-party democracy and serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013.
• Tributes highlight his lasting impact on Kenya's political landscape, despite never winning the presidency after five attempts.
• His body has returned to Kenya for a state funeral, marking the end of an era in the nation’s political narrative.

Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga died at the age of 80 on October 15, 2025, reportedly suffering a heart attack while undergoing treatment in India. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Kenyan politics, as Odinga had long been a dominant figure in the nation's opposition landscape, championing democracy and reforms throughout his career. Since news emerged of his death, there has been an outpouring of tributes from leaders and citizens alike, expressing deep sorrow and recognition of his contributions to the country’s political evolution, according to Reuters and Le Monde.

President William Ruto expressed his condolences, stating that Odinga was “the father of our democracy” and a “once-in-a-generation leader.” Ruto confirmed that national flags would fly at half-staff for seven days in mourning for the late politician, and a state funeral will be held as a tribute to Odinga's legacy. His political journey was marked by multiple campaigns for the presidency, with five unsuccessful bids from 1997 to 2022, revealing the challenges he faced despite his popularity, as reported by BBC and Los Angeles Times.

Odinga's political career spanned over four decades, advocating for multiparty democracy and serving as prime minister in a power-sharing agreement following the tumultuous 2007 electoral dispute that resulted in violent clashes across the nation. Despite not achieving the presidency, Odinga played an integral role in the establishment of a more democratic political system in Kenya, evidenced by significant reforms including a new constitution in 2010, according to Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.

The day he collapsed during a morning walk in India, Odinga was accompanied by family members and security personnel, highlighting how deeply he was supported in both his personal and political life. His sudden death shocked many, including international leaders such as Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who extended condolences, calling Odinga "a towering figure in political life” not just in Kenya but across Africa, as reported by Africa News and Africa News.

His body has since returned to Kenya, where he will be laid to rest in his home district of Bondo. The upcoming state funeral is expected to draw significant crowds, honoring a man whose influence and legacy were felt across the political spectrum, in both Kenya and beyond, as reported by Africa News.