Former Prime Minister of Kenya, Raila Amolo Odinga, has reportedly passed away at the age of 80 on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Koothattukulam, Ernakulam district, Kerala, India.
According to hospital authorities, he suffered a cardiac arrest during his morning walk on the hospital campus and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Odinga had been receiving treatment at the facility for the past five days, accompanied by his daughter, Rosemary Odinga, and his personal doctor.
The hospital stated that his body will be embalmed and further procedures will be carried out under the guidance of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Kenyan Embassy in New Delhi.
The Odinga family has a longstanding connection with the hospital.
Rosemary Odinga had lost her sight completely in 2017 due to optic nerve damage, but following treatment at Sreedhareeyam, she regained her vision starting in 2019.
Raila Odinga had previously expressed his gratitude to the physicians for restoring his daughter’s sight.
Raila Odinga had served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, was the Member of Parliament for Langata Constituency from 1992 to 2013, and had long been the Leader of the Opposition in Kenya.
His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Kenya’s political history.
Earlier this month, his brother, Dr. Oburu Odinga, had reassured the public regarding Raila’s health, stating:
“Raila was only indisposed for a short while. He’s now up, walking, and even joking with those around him.”
Odinga’s sudden passing comes as a shock to his family, supporters, and the nation.
Details regarding the repatriation of his remains and funeral arrangements are expected to be provided by the Kenyan government and his family in the coming days.
Raila Odinga leaves behind a legacy of political activism, advocacy for democracy, and unwavering commitment to Kenya’s development.
