Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has died at the age of 80, a source in Odinga’s office told Reuters on Wednesday, without giving further details.
Indian newspaper Mathrubhumi earlier reported that Odinga, who was undergoing treatment in the southern Indian city of Kochi, suffered a cardiac arrest on Wednesday and was rushed to hospital where he was pronounced dead.
A towering figure in Kenyan politics for over four decades, Odinga served as the country’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, during a crucial period of national reconciliation and constitutional reform.
Known for his fiery speeches and grassroots connect, he was a central figure in shaping modern Kenyan democracy.
He played a key role in the power-sharing agreement that ended the post-election violence of 2007–08, emerging as a national leader who advocated dialogue and reform.
Odinga was also a long-time opposition leader and head of the Orange Democratic Movement.
He contested several presidential elections and remained one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures.
His career was marked by both fierce political battles and efforts to build a more inclusive political system.
Officials from the Kenyan Embassy in New Delhi have been informed and are coordinating with the Kerala government and hospital authorities for the repatriation of the body.
Local leaders and members of the Kenyan diaspora expressed shock and grief at his demise.
