Supporters Mourn at Raila’s Home
Supporters of the late ODM leader Raila Odinga gathered at his residence in Karen on Wednesday, October 15, after hearing the heartbreaking news of his passing.
In videos that circulated, you could see a sea of vehicles lining the road leading up to the former Prime Minister’s home.
Many of his supporters, some walking, were making their way to the residence, waving tree twigs and blowing vuvuzelas in a show of solidarity.
The air was filled with the sounds of mourners wailing, while police officers, both on foot and on motorbikes, were present to keep the peace as the crowds continued to swell outside the Karen compound.
Raila, who was Kenya’s second Prime Minister and a long-time leader of the ODM, sadly passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 80.
He reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk at an Ayurvedic treatment facility in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, India.
Raila was rushed to a private hospital in Koothattukulam, where doctors pronounced him dead at 7:22 a.m.
The news of Raila’s passing has drawn an outpouring of condolences, as leaders, allies, and citizens reflect on his contribution to democracy and governance.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga said he was deeply saddened by the death of a man he described as a patriot and a transformative leader.
“I am shocked to learn of the demise of former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, a patriot, a pan-Africanist, a democrat and a leader who made significant contributions to democracy in Kenya and in Africa. Kenya has lost one of its most formidable leaders who shaped the trajectory of our beloved country. Africa has lost a leading voice in pushing for peace, security and development. The world has lost a great leader.
“During these difficult times, I pass my deepest condolences to Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, to the people of Kibra Constituency, who he represented for many years, to the people of Siaya County, where he hails from and to all of us Kenyans. May the Lord comfort us all as we deal with this enormous blow,” he said.
From the international community, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also sent a message of condolence on behalf of his government.
“On behalf of the Government of Ethiopia, I extend my sincere condolences on the passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga. May he Rest In Peace,” he stated.
Activist Boniface Mwangi joined in mourning the ODM leader, describing his death as the end of an era while expressing hope for a new generation of leadership.
“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 the shackles of bad leadership and corruption was born. Viva the revolution, viva,” he stated.
Lawyer Willis Otieno paid tribute to Raila’s unmatched influence on Kenya’s political landscape, describing him as the most consequential politician of the modern era.
“Raila Amolo Odinga was, without doubt, the most consequential politician in Kenya over the last three decades. His shadow loomed large over every political transition, every national conversation, and every democratic milestone,” he noted.
He continued, “He will be missed at many levels, as a political disruptor, a relentless reformist, a builder of movements, and a symbol of stubborn hope. On the political landscape, he departs leaving few enemies, some loyal allies, and many orphans whose identities were anchored in his cause.”
Supporters Mourn at Raila’s Home
