Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and a leading figure in the opposition, has died at the age of 80. His body arrived in Nairobi on Thursday, where a large, emotional crowd gathered to mark the start of a national period of mourning. The aircraft carrying his remains landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, and as the coffin left the tarmac, thousands of Kenyans paid their respects, waving flags, singing the national anthem and chanting tributes to the leader they affectionately called “Baba.” A procession of motorcycle taxis, known as “boda bodas,” accompanied the hearse, underscoring Odinga’s deep connection with the populace.
Odinga was a defining force in Kenyan politics. He championed multiparty democracy in the 1990s and endured periods of detention without trial. He made five unsuccessful presidential bids, the most recent in 2022, each contested. The 2007 election was especially notable, as it sparked widespread violence and led to a power‑sharing agreement that made him Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. Although he remained an opposition leader, Odinga earned respect across political divides and is remembered as a dedicated patriot.
President William Ruto, Odinga’s former rival, announced a seven‑day mourning period with flags at half‑staff, describing the loss as “immense and immeasurable.” After his 2022 defeat, Odinga joined Ruto in a “broad‑based” government, a move he defended as essential for national unity. Odinga’s body will lie in state in Parliament for public viewing, with a national funeral ceremony scheduled for Friday. He will be laid to rest on Sunday in his home town of Bondo.
The outpouring of grief and respect reflects Odinga’s significant impact on Kenyan politics and his commitment to democracy. His legacy will continue to be felt for years to come, and his passing marks the end of an era in Kenya’s political history.
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