New details have emerged regarding the sudden death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away while undergoing treatment in India. Family sources have now revealed that the veteran politician suffered a fatal heart attack during a morning run, moments before being rushed to the hospital.
According to reports, Raila — who had been in India for medical evaluation — was following a light exercise routine prescribed by his doctors. On the fateful morning, he reportedly set out for his usual run within the hospital compound but collapsed midway.
Medical teams on site immediately responded and attempted to resuscitate him, but their efforts proved unsuccessful. He was later pronounced dead, with doctors confirming cardiac arrest as the cause of death.
Family members, who had accompanied him to India, described the incident as “sudden and unexpected,” noting that the opposition leader had shown significant improvement in his health in recent days.
“He was in good spirits and even joked with us the night before. We are still in disbelief,” said a close relative who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Sources further indicated that the 80-year-old leader had been closely monitored following mild complications linked to fatigue and age-related health concerns. Despite ongoing speculation in recent weeks, his family and political allies had consistently dismissed claims that he was critically ill.
The news of Raila’s passing has thrown Kenya into mourning, with leaders across the political divide expressing deep sorrow over the loss of one of the nation’s most iconic figures.
President William Ruto, who had previously worked closely with Raila in a broad-based government arrangement, described him as a “towering statesman whose contributions to Kenya’s democracy will never be forgotten.”
Thousands of Kenyans have also taken to social media to express grief, share tributes, and recall the moments that defined Raila’s decades-long struggle for democracy and social justice.
Summary Table: Key Details Surrounding Raila Odinga’s Death
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | Wednesday (Exact date not disclosed) |
| Place of Death | India |
| Age at Death | 80 years |
| Cause of Death | Heart attack during morning run |
| Immediate Response | Doctors attempted resuscitation but failed |
| Health Background | Under medical review for fatigue and age-related concerns |
| Family Statement | Death was sudden and unexpected |
| Public Reaction | Widespread grief and national mourning |
Raila Odinga’s passing marks the end of an era in Kenya’s political history. A man who fought tirelessly for democracy, constitutional reform, and human rights, his legacy will forever remain etched in the hearts of millions of Kenyans who fondly called him “Baba” and “Agwambo.”
