World leaders have mourned the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 80.
Earlier, Indian newspaper Mathrubhumi reported that Odinga, who was undergoing treatment in the southern Indian city of Kochi, suffered a cardiac arrest on Wednesday morning within the premises of the Ayurvedic facility.
It was reported that CPR was administered by the medical team on-site before he was rushed to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was pronounced dead around 9.52 am Indian time.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to the passing of Raila Odinga, stating:
“Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and former Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr. Raila Odinga. He was a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India. I had the privilege of knowing him closely since my days as Chief Minister of Gujarat and our association continued over the years. He had a special affection for India, our culture, values and ancient wisdom. This was reflected in his efforts to strengthen India-Kenya ties. He particularly admired Ayurveda and traditional medicine systems of India, having witnessed their positive impact on his daughter’s health. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and to the people of Kenya in this hour of grief.”
Tanzania President Samia Suluhu also mourned Raila, saying that she has received the news of his passing with great sorrow, noting that “this loss is not only Kenya’s, but ours collectively.”
“We have lost an exceptional leader, a Pan-Africanist, a peace-loving and solution-seeking individual whose influence and love extended not only within Kenya but also across East Africa and the entire African continent.
On behalf of the Government and the People of the United Republic of Tanzania, I extend heartfelt condolences to the President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, Mama Ida Odinga, the children, family, relatives, friends, and all the people of Kenya during this time of mourning,” Suluhu said.
“We join in praying that Almighty God grants them patience, comfort, and faith during this period, and may the soul of our beloved, Honorable Raila Amolo Odinga, rest in eternal peace.”
On his part, Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema shared:
“Saddened to hear of the passing of former PM @RailaOdinga. We extend our deepest condolences to the people of Kenya, the Odinga family, President @WilliamsRuto and all those touched by this towering advocate for democracy. His legacy will endure. May he rest in eternal peace.”
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali also shared:
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.
Also Read: Uhuru Mourns Raila Odinga in Long, Emotional Tribute
Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh mourned the death of Raila noting that Kenya has lost a visionary leader.
“Our condolences to his family and all the Kenyan people,” Guelleh added.
African Union Commission (AUC) mourns Raila Odinga
The African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on behalf of the African Union, its organs and institutions, the Chairperson extended his deepest condolences to the Odinga family, the Government and people of Kenya, and to the entire African family mourning this immense loss.
“H.E. Raila Odinga was a towering figure in Kenya’s political life and a steadfast champion of democracy, good governance, and people-centered development. His decades-long commitment to justice, pluralism, and democratic reform left an indelible mark not only on Kenya but across the African continent. He inspired generations of leaders, including myself, and citizens alike through his courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in the power of dialogue and democratic institutions,” said the Chairperson.
“Mr. Odinga’s contributions extended far beyond national borders. As the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, he worked tirelessly to advance the continent’s integration and connectivity agenda, helping to lay the foundations for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and broader socio-economic transformation,” he added.
Chairperson Youssouf further noted:
“Africa has lost one of its most visionary sons; a leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, democracy, and unity. His legacy will continue to inspire our collective efforts to build a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Africa.”
Former AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki on his part shared:
“It is with deep sorrow that I learned of the passing of the late Hon Raila Amolo Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya & PanAfrican statesman. A fearless leader, Raila Odinga shaped the political trajectory of his country. A strong advocate for Continental integration, he also served the Continent as High Representative for Infrastructure Development. My deepest condolences to his family, the People and Government of Kenya.”
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