Raila Odinga Dies in India After Cardiac Arrest
Kenya is mourning. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has died in India after suffering a cardiac arrest.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed on Wednesday morning, October 15, sending waves of grief across the nation.
According to hospital officials in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, Odinga collapsed during his morning walk around 9:00 a.m. local time.
He was rushed to the hospital, but despite frantic efforts by doctors, he was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m. (Indian time).
A hospital spokesperson said, “He arrived at the facility unresponsive. All resuscitation efforts failed. We can confirm his death at 9:52 a.m.”
Family Was by His Side
Reports from India reveal that Raila’s daughter and close relatives were with him at the time.
They had been staying near the Koothattukulam Ayurvedic Centre, where Raila had been undergoing traditional treatment.
The 80-year-old leader had flown to India six days earlier, seeking therapy and rest after what family members described as “mild illness.”
Just last week, his elder brother and East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) member, Dr. Oburu Odinga, had tried to calm the growing public anxiety
Speaking during an ODM event on October 9, he assured supporters that Raila was improving.
“I want to take this opportunity to clarify this,” Oburu had said.
“There have been a lot of rumours about our party leader, Raila Odinga — that he is very sick, almost dying, and completely out. That is not true.”
His words now echo painfully in the hearts of many Kenyans who had hoped for Raila’s full recovery.
A Nation in Mourning
News of his passing spread rapidly through social media and local stations, sparking disbelief, sorrow, and tributes.
From Nairobi to Kisumu, citizens gathered in small groups, praying and remembering his lifelong struggle for democracy and justice.
Political leaders across the divide have expressed their condolences.
One ODM member emotionally remarked, “Kenya has lost its greatest voice of resilience. Baba has fallen.”
Legacy That Will Never Fade
For over four decades, Raila Amolo Odinga stood tall in Kenya’s political arena — a symbol of courage, reform, and hope.
Though his final moments were far from home, his spirit remains deeply rooted in the heart of every Kenyan.
As one mourner whispered outside Orange House, “Baba fought for us. Kenya will never forget him.”
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Raila Odinga Dies in India After Cardiac Arrest
