Nairobi: President William Ruto led the nation in paying their last respects to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The event saw the attendance of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Mama Ida Odinga, government officials, dignitaries, and the public, who came together to honor the legacy of the late leader.
According to Kenya News Agency, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga passed away on Wednesday, October 15, at Devamatha Hospital in Kerala, India, where he was receiving treatment. The 80-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest during his routine morning walk at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Medical Centre. Despite immediate first aid and subsequent specialized medical care at Devamatha Hospital, he was pronounced dead at around 9 a.m.
Earlier in the day, President Ruto, along with former President Kenyatta, government officials, and dignitaries, welcomed the body of Raila Odinga at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The body was brought back to Kenya aboard a Kenya Airways flight that arrived at approximately 9:30 a.m. The delegation tasked with ensuring the smooth repatriation of Raila's remains was led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and included family members such as his sister Ruth Odinga and EALA Member of Parliament Winnie Odinga.
In honor of Raila Odinga, President Ruto declared seven days of mourning, during which the National Flag will fly at half-mast. A committee, led by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and co-chaired by Senator Oburu Oginga, has been appointed to oversee the funeral arrangements. A state funeral service is scheduled for Friday, October 17, at Nyayo Stadium, with the burial planned for Sunday, October 19, at the Kan'go Ka Jaramogi family home in Bondo, Siaya County.
The announcement of Raila Odinga's passing prompted a global outpouring of tributes. The United Nations, African Union, and IGAD were among the international organizations that extended their condolences, alongside several Heads of State, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Many dignitaries remembered Odinga as an icon and a towering figure in democracy, celebrating his contributions as a statesman, Pan-Africanist, and advocate of peace.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, stating, "I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend Raila Odinga. Raila was a friend of the Indian people, our culture, and values. The late former Prime Minister strengthened bilateral relations between Kenya and India."
President Ruto's declaration of national mourning reflects the deep loss felt across the country and beyond, as Kenyans and the international community remember the life and legacy of Raila Odinga.