“Ruto Must Go” Chants Erupt at Raila’s Residence in Karen as Nation Mourns
Emotions ran high at his Karen residence on Wednesday afternoon as thousands of mourners gathered, chanting “Ruto Must Go!” repeatedly amid tears, disbelief, and sorrow.
The chants erupted just moments after President William Ruto arrived at the Odinga home to console the family.
Witnesses say the crowd’s emotions overwhelmed the tight security presence.
“We can’t believe Baba is gone! Ruto must go! Baba can’t leave us like this!” one mourner cried, waving an ODM flag soaked in tears.
The President, visibly shaken, walked quietly into the house as the chants continued outside.
The Tragic Morning in India
According to reports from India, Raila passed away at 9:52 am Indian time, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk at a wellness center in Koothattukulam, Kerala State.
He had been in India for Ayurvedic treatment, accompanied by his daughter Winnie Odinga and a few close relatives.
Doctors confirmed that he collapsed suddenly within the facility’s compound. Despite frantic attempts to revive him, he was pronounced dead minutes later.
An emotional hospital spokesperson said, “We did everything possible, but his heart could not respond. It was peaceful.”
The 80-year-old leader had been away from the public eye for weeks, sparking speculation about his health. Just six days earlier, he had arrived in India seeking treatment for fatigue-related complications.
A Nation in Disbelief
Back home, the news broke early Wednesday morning, spreading like wildfire across social media.
At first, disbelief ruled. ODM communication director Philip Etale simply posted, “I am deflated.”
Within minutes, Kenya’s streets fell silent. Offices paused. Radios switched to somber tunes. Markets froze.
At the National Assembly, Speaker Moses Wetang’ula abruptly adjourned the morning sitting, saying he would make “important communication at 2:30 pm.”
He told lawmakers, “Under Standing Order Number One, I direct that we adjourn. The House shall reconvene this afternoon for official communication.”
Later that afternoon, Wetang’ula confirmed the tragic news. The session ended in tears, silence, and prayer.
Global Leaders React
Condolences poured in from all corners of the world.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Raila “a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India.” He praised his courage and decades of advocacy for democracy.
The African Union Commission Chairperson, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, described Raila as “one of Africa’s most visionary sons whose voice will echo across generations.”
From Zambia, President Hakainde Hichilema mourned him as “a brother, a hero, and an unyielding believer in Africa’s freedom and prosperity.”
Back home, President Ruto issued a brief statement after leaving the Odinga residence.
He said, “Kenya has lost a great patriot. Raila Odinga will be remembered for his unmatched courage, resilience, and sacrifice for our nation.”
Emotions Boil Over in Karen
Despite the President’s presence, emotions outside the Karen home reached a fever pitch.
Supporters, some wearing orange ODM colors, broke into loud chants of “Ruto Must Go!” accusing the government of not doing enough to support the veteran leader in his final months.
Security tried to calm the crowd, but the chants only grew louder.
“We came to cry, but how can we not speak when the man who carried Kenya’s dream is gone?” shouted another mourner.
ODM youth leaders were seen comforting grieving supporters, urging peace.
“Let us mourn with dignity. Baba wanted peace,” one of them said over a megaphone, even as wailing filled the air.
The Legacy of a Statesman
Raila’s political journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From being detained under the Moi regime to leading the fight for multiparty democracy, his name became synonymous with resilience.
He served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, following the 2007 post-election crisis.
Throughout his career, Raila remained an unwavering advocate for good governance and fairness. His courage earned him both admiration and criticism — but never indifference.
“Raila Odinga was the conscience of our nation,” said Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o. “He may be gone, but his spirit will forever guide our politics.”
From Rivalry to Partnership
Ironically, Raila and President Ruto had only recently mended their long-standing political rivalry.
In March 2025, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between their parties — ODM and UDA — marking the beginning of what they called a “broad-based government.”
“We are not merging parties,” Raila had said during the signing. “We are merging visions for Kenya’s peace and prosperity.”
President Ruto echoed him, saying, “Raila has shown true statesmanship. Together, we will move this country forward.”
Today, those words have turned into painful echoes.
Tears in Kisumu and Bondo
As the sun set over Lake Victoria, Raila’s stronghold of Kisumu erupted into a sea of grief.
Residents gathered at Jomo Kenyatta Grounds, holding candles and portraits of the man they called Baba.
“He was more than a leader; he was our father,” said a tearful elderly woman. “Without Raila, Kisumu feels empty.”
Winnie Odinga, still in India, is expected to arrive with her father’s body in the coming days.
The Political Void
Raila’s death leaves an enormous void in Kenya’s political landscape.
For decades, he was the face of opposition politics, the voice of reform, and a rallying symbol for justice.
Even in old age, he remained deeply involved in shaping Kenya’s direction, mentoring young leaders, and pushing for electoral transparency.
Political analysts now believe his passing could reshape the country’s political future.
“No one can replace Raila Odinga,” said political analyst Herman Manyora. “He was the bridge between Kenya’s past and its democratic future.”
National Mourning Declared
Late Wednesday evening, State House declared a seven-day national mourning period.
All flags will fly at half-mast until further notice.
The government also confirmed that a state funeral will be held, with details to be announced after consultations with the Odinga family.
A funeral organizing committee has already been formed, comprising both government and ODM officials.
A Nation Reflects
As night fell over Nairobi, thousands of Kenyans lit candles outside Parliament Buildings, Uhuru Park, and major city centers.
Churches, mosques, and temples opened their doors for prayers.
Even political opponents came together, united by grief.
The chants of “Ruto Must Go” may fade, but the memory of Raila Odinga — the fighter, the reformer, the dreamer — will echo for generations.
ALSO READ: Raila’s Political Journey: From Detention to One of Kenya’s Most Influential Political Figures
“Ruto Must Go” Chants Erupt at Raila’s Residence in Karen as Nation Mourns
