President William Ruto has officially announced the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, describing him as “Kenya’s foremost statesman and one of Africa’s greatest sons.”

In a sombre national address on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, the President confirmed that Odinga, 80, had died earlier that morning while receiving treatment in India after suffering cardiac arrest.

Flanked by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Raila’s elder brother, Senator Oburu Oginga, Ruto said Kenya had lost a leader whose courage, vision, and resilience shaped the country’s democratic journey.

“Fellow citizens, it is with deep sorrow that I inform the nation of the passing of Rt Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga,” Ruto said. “Kenya, Africa, and the world mourn the passing of a giant of democracy and a tireless warrior for good governance.”

The President announced seven days of national mourning in honour of the opposition leader, directing that all national flags be flown at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad.

Ruto praised Odinga’s decades of service to the nation, calling him a man of conviction and courage.

“Raila’s name will forever be etched in the story of our republic — a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, and hope,” he said.

The President also extended condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, their children, and the entire Odinga family.

“As we mourn, I call on all Kenyans to reflect on his towering legacy,” Ruto added. “Raila offered a model of leadership that placed the country above personal interest.”

Somber Scenes at Karen Residence

Earlier in the day, President Ruto visited the Odinga family home in Karen, Nairobi, where grief had engulfed the household.

He was received by Mama Ida, alongside their daughters, Rosemary and Winnie. The President was seen comforting the widow and family members, his tone heavy with empathy.

Deputy President Kindiki accompanied him, together with several Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders, including Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and other senior figures from both government and opposition were also present.

Witnesses described an atmosphere of disbelief and sorrow. Some leaders sat quietly, heads bowed, while others struggled to hold back tears.

As the news spread, Kenya entered a period of reflection — not just on the life of one man, but on an era he defined through struggle, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of justice.