Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has died at the age of 80, family sources have reported. Odinga passed away while undergoing medical treatment in India on Wednesday.
In the weeks leading to his death, there were concerns about his health, although his family and political allies had dismissed rumors of his critical condition. Following the news, political leaders, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, have sent their condolences.
A formidable force in Kenyan politics, Odinga contested the presidency five times, alleging electoral fraud on each occasion. His political career reached a pivotal moment in 2017 when Kenya's highest court annulled President Uhuru Kenyatta's electoral victory, compelling re-elections, which Odinga ultimately boycotted in demand of electoral reforms.
The 2007 elections sparked severe violence across Kenya, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and displacing about 600,000 people, leading to a power-sharing agreement facilitated by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, which saw Odinga appointed Prime Minister.
He was known for reconciling with rival political figures, including support for President William Ruto after his last electoral defeat in 2022, advocating for national unity amid regional protests.
In his long-standing political journey, he garnered a devoted following, fondly called 'Baba' (Father) and 'Tinga' (Tractor), recognized for his charismatic mobilization efforts and connection with everyday Kenyans.
Odinga's commitment to fighting for democracy and human rights left an indelible mark in Kenya, where he was both admired and contested. Remembered as Kenya's longest-serving political detainee, his life was characterized by a relentless pursuit of justice and freedom.
