Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India, President William Ruto has confirmed.
Odinga, aged 80, was undergoing treatment in India when he collapsed and was rushed to hospital. He was pronounced dead at approximately 9:52 a.m. local time, according to hospital officials.
His daughter and relatives were reportedly with him at the time. He had travelled to Koothattukulam in Kerala’s Ernakulam district for Ayurvedic treatment nearly a week earlier.
Prior to his passing, Odinga’s family members had tried to calm speculation about his health. On Thursday, October 9, his brother Oburu Odinga confirmed that Raila was unwell but said he was in recovery and dismissed rumors of critical illness.
His wife Ida Odinga had also responded to speculation, stating that only those close to him could know his true health status and that the claims about his condition were exaggerated.
Raila’s death comes as his party, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), was preparing to celebrate its 20th anniversary in Mombasa.
