President Ruto addressing the Nation on the death of ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga. Photo PCS 
By Andrew Mbuva
Kenya has been plunged into mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, fondly known as “Baba”, who passed away while receiving treatment in India at the age of 80.
President William Ruto led the nation in paying tribute to the veteran opposition leader, describing him as “Kenya’s foremost statesman and one of Africa’s greatest sons.”
“Raila Amolo Odinga’s name will forever be etched in the story of our Republic — a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, and our pursuit for excellence,” the President said at State House, Nairobi.
Dr Ruto announced a seven-day national mourning period and ordered flags to fly at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad. He also confirmed that Odinga will be accorded a state funeral, honouring his towering contribution to Kenya’s political history.
“Let us come together, as he always urged us to do, not as rivals but as brothers and sisters bound by a shared destiny,” the President added.
Earlier, President Ruto visited the Odinga family home in Karen to condole with Mama Ida Odinga and her children. He also revealed that a government delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has been dispatched to India to facilitate the repatriation of the late leader’s remains.
Kalonzo Musyoka: “Kenya Has Lost the President Who Won but Was Never Sworn In”
Former Vice President Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, who worked closely with Odinga in the CORD, NASA, and Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalitions, said he received the devastating news while in London.
He mourned Odinga as a “Champion of the Second Political Liberation” whose courage and resilience reshaped Kenya’s democracy.
“Baba was the longest-suffering political detainee in Kenya. His body bore the scars of torture, yet every time he walked free, he raised his fist to the heavens — determined that his pain would yield freedom for Kenya,” Kalonzo said.
The Wiper Party Leader described Odinga as a man whose sacrifices gave birth to the 2010 Constitution and devolved governance.
“Kenya has lost the President who won but was never declared and sworn into office,” he said, adding that Odinga’s legacy would forever inspire the struggle for justice and equity.
Kalonzo conveyed heartfelt condolences to Mama Ida and the entire Odinga family, saying, “My family and I stand in solidarity with you. May God rest the soul of Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga in everlasting peace.”
Rigathi Gachagua: “The Lion of Africa Has Faded Away”
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described the late Odinga as “a formidable hero of Kenya’s second liberation and an indefatigable lion of Africa.”
“You faced brutal regimes, endured torture and detention, yet you never wavered in your quest for democracy,” Gachagua said.
He praised Odinga’s lifelong dedication to public service — as a university lecturer, MP, Cabinet Minister, Prime Minister, and opposition leader — noting that his “trail of success and impact remains indelible.”
Though they often stood on opposite political sides, Gachagua acknowledged his admiration for Odinga’s leadership and ability to build enduring political movements.
“You are a hero celebrated home and away; you have not gone, Raila Odinga — you have just faded away,” he said.
As Kenya reflects on the life of the man who inspired generations, streets, homes, and social media platforms are awash with tributes celebrating Baba — the fearless democrat, the tireless reformist, and the eternal symbol of Kenya’s struggle for freedom and justice.
