How Kenyan and Politicians Have Mourned the Late Raila Odinga

The nation is in mourning following the shocking death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, one of Kenya’s most iconic political figures and a towering champion of democracy.

Odinga passed away on Wednesday, October 2025, while receiving treatment in India, according to official family and ODM party statements.

The announcement has sent waves of grief and disbelief across the country, with social media flooded by tributes from leaders, citizens, and public figures who described the news as a dark day in Kenya’s history.

Weeks of Speculation Before the Shocking Confirmation

Concerns over Raila Odinga’s health began surfacing weeks earlier after his noticeable absence from public events.

Rumours of illness spread rapidly online, prompting both his family and officials from the Orange DemocraticMovement (ODM) to issue reassurances that the veteran leader was in good health.

ALSO READ: Ida Odinga Sets the Record Straight on Raila’s Well-Being

However, the confirmation of his passing on Wednesday morning left millions stunned. Streets, offices, and homes across the country fell silent as news bulletins dominated all major media outlets.

Flags were lowered to half-mast in several counties as Kenyans struggled to come to terms with the loss of a man affectionately known as “Baba” or “Jakom.”

Nationwide Grief and Emotional Tributes

Thousands of Kenyans took to social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), to express their sorrow and recall Raila Odinga’s lifelong fight for democracy, justice, and unity.

One Kenyan user wrote:

“Raila Odinga fought for our democracy. Kenya has lost a true hero. The freedom we enjoy now is because of his fight. Without him, Kenya would be like Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, or Rwanda.”

Another tribute read:

“Kenyans will remember Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga forever. He made mistakes, but he also did great things. He helped bring about the new constitution and made Kenya one of the freest nations in Africa. Rest in peace, Baba, Jakom!”

The outpouring of emotion reflected the deep personal connection many Kenyans felt toward Odinga, who was often seen as a father figure to the nation.

Leaders and Public Figures React

Political leaders, activists, and entertainers joined in mourning. Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko posted on X, “Black Wednesday. Double tragedy. Wawili.”

Didmus Barasa, MP for Kimilili, wrote, “Rest in peace, Baba Raila Odinga, a luminary whose resonant voice reverberated with profound sagacity and whose aura elicited deference sans overt exigency.”

Activist Boniface Mwangi shared on Instagram:

“My condolences to the Raila Odinga family. Mzee amepumzika. His watch is over. What gives me hope is that last year a generation that will liberate Kenya from bad leadership was born. Viva the revolution!”

Even long-time critic Miguna Migunaoffered condolences, tweeting, “Yes, I have just heard the sad news. Our condolences to the family of Raila Odinga. Rest in peace, Jakom.”

Celebrities also expressed shock, with comedian Oga Obinna posting a heartfelt tribute video on Instagram, describing Odinga as “a towering figure in Kenya’s political history and a long-time champion of democracy.”

A Nation in Mourning

Raila Odinga’s death marks the end of an era for Kenya. For decades, he embodied resilience and political courage, shaping the nation’s democratic journey and inspiring millions across generations.

As Kenya mourns the passing of its most influential opposition leader, tributes continue to pour in, uniting citizens in shared grief. For many, Raila Odinga was more than a politician — he was the symbol of a dream for a better Kenya.

Rest in Peace, Baba. Kenya will remember you forever.