Raila Odinga, a dominant force in Kenyan politics and a former Prime Minister, has passed away at the age of 80. Family sources confirmed to the BBC that Odinga died on Wednesday while undergoing medical treatment in India. His death marks the end of an era for Kenyan politics, where he was a constant and influential presence for many years.
In recent times, speculation about his health had been rife, though family and political allies had worked to allay concerns. News of his passing has prompted a wave of condolences from leaders across the continent and beyond, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
Odinga, a charismatic political mobilizer, contested the presidency five times, each time challenging the election results and often asserting that victory had been unfairly denied to him. His most significant electoral challenge was in 2007, following a contentious election against Mwai Kibaki, which plunged Kenya into its worst political crisis, resulting in widespread violence, over 1,200 deaths, and the displacement of approximately 600,000 people. This crisis eventually led to a power-sharing agreement, with Odinga assuming the role of Prime Minister.
He also found himself in alliances with his political rivals after contested elections, most notably joining forces with President William Ruto in a broad-based government after the 2022 elections. Odinga defended this move as essential for national unity, particularly after nationwide protests the previous year, which saw significant unrest and clashes with security forces.
Throughout his career, Odinga, affectionately known as “Baba” (Father), “Agwambo” (Act of God), and “Tinga” (Tractor), inspired deep loyalty, especially in his home region of western Kenya. He was recognized as a master strategist and an exceptional mass mobilizer, capable of drawing large crowds and connecting deeply with ordinary citizens. His legacy includes an unwavering commitment to democratic freedoms and human rights, solidified by his experiences as a political prisoner and Kenya’s longest-detained individual, enduring significant periods of imprisonment during Daniel arap Moi’s rule.