Nairobi, Kenya: Raila Amolo Odinga, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, who died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 80 years old in Kerala, India, leaves behind a legacy that stretches across six decades of political struggle, reform, and resilience in Kenya’s turbulent democratic journey.
Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu County, Raila was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and one of the country’s foremost independence leaders. From a young age, Raila’s life mirrored his father’s – defined by defiance, political detention, and an unyielding call for social justice.
After completing his studies in East Germany, where he earned a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Raila returned to Kenya and joined the University of Nairobi as a lecturer. But politics soon called him to the frontlines of Kenya’s struggle for multi-party democracy.
In 1982, he was detained without trial for six years over allegations of involvement in the failed coup against President Daniel Arap Moi’s government. This marked the beginning of a series of incarcerations that would define his relationship with power – at once adversarial, reformist, and revolutionary.
Raila’s political map
Raila’s political career gained full momentum in the 1990s as Kenya embraced multi-party democracy. He founded and led movements that challenged authoritarianism, eventually establishing himself as the heartbeat of opposition politics in East Africa.
He served as Member of Parliament for Lang’ata from 1992 to 2013, and later as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013 under the Grand Coalition Government formed after Kenya’s violent post-election crisis.
During his tenure, Raila pushed for major constitutional reforms, anti-corruption measures, and infrastructure expansion, earning him admiration and criticism in equal measure.
A five-time presidential contender (1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022), Raila’s bids for State House were often marred by electoral controversy. His fiery rhetoric and populist charm made him both a unifying and polarizing figure – loved by millions, opposed by many, but respected by all.
Beyond politics, Raila was also a successful businessman, an advocate for pan-African unity, and a strong voice for democracy across the continent. He was instrumental in mediating peace talks in several African nations and maintained close ties with leaders across the globe.
Raila is survived by his wife, Ida Odinga, and children, including Rosemary Odinga, who famously regained her sight after receiving treatment at the same Indian hospital where her father later died on Wednesday.
For Kenya and Africa at large, Raila Odinga’s death marks the end of an era – one defined by defiance, vision, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
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