Raila Amolo Odinga, Kenya’s long-serving opposition leader and one of Africa’s most influential political figures, passed away on 15th October 2025 in India. His death marked the end of a political era that stretched over five decades. This article explains Raila Odinga’s cause of death, his medical journey in India, the family members who accompanied him, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Raila Odinga Cause of Death
Raila Odinga died of cardiac arrest—a sudden stoppage of heart activity—while receiving treatment at the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Koothattukulam, Kerala, India.
He reportedly collapsed during a morning walk around 8:30 a.m. Indian time. Doctors at the nearby Devamatha Hospital tried to resuscitate him, but he was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m.
Raila Odinga cause of death is associated with his long-term health conditions. Hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease are believed to have contributed to the fatal cardiac arrest.
His Medical Journey to India
Raila had a long association with Indian healthcare, especially Ayurveda. The same Kerala facility had earlier treated his daughter Rosemary Odinga, who regained vision through Ayurvedic therapy in 2017.
In early October 2025, Raila flew to India for a two-week rejuvenation and wellness program. Reports indicate that he had spent a few days in Mumbai before transferring to Kerala for holistic therapies focusing on circulation and body detoxification.
He had been in India for about five to ten days when tragedy struck.
Final Days in Kerala
During his brief stay, Odinga maintained a disciplined health routine that included daily walks and Ayurvedic massage sessions.
Those who interacted with him say he appeared relaxed and cheerful the night before his death.
On the morning of October 15, he left for his usual walk but suddenly collapsed. Paramedics arrived swiftly, and he was rushed to hospital—but despite immediate CPR, his heart never restarted.
Family Members Who Accompanied Him
Raila did not travel alone to India. He was accompanied by:
- Winnie Odinga – his youngest daughter
- Ruth Odinga – his sister
- Dr. David Livingstone Oluoch – his personal physician
- One bodyguard and aide
His wife, Ida Odinga, stayed in Nairobi, where she received constant updates on his condition. The family had reportedly spoken over a video call the night before his death.
How Long He Had Been in Treatment
Odinga had been receiving periodic treatment in India for several years, balancing Western medical checkups and Ayurvedic therapies.
He made at least four medical trips between 2019 and 2025, mainly for age-related issues like blood pressure management, kidney monitoring, and joint pain.
His October 2025 visit was meant to help him regain strength and vitality—but it tragically ended after just five days.
Health Background
Close aides confirm that Raila had quietly managed several chronic illnesses in his later years. His doctors monitored:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Kidney strain
- Occasional cardiovascular stress
He was advised to maintain light exercise and rest frequently. Though he had slowed down, he remained mentally sharp and politically alert until his final days.
Legacy of a Fighter
Raila Odinga’s death represents more than a personal loss—it’s the closing of a historic political chapter.
He was jailed, exiled, and tortured for fighting for Kenya’s democracy, yet he never wavered. From the multiparty reforms of the 1990s to the 2010 Constitution, his influence shaped modern Kenya.
Even in his eighties, Raila remained a powerful voice for social justice, reform, and African unity.
Final Reflection
Raila Odinga’s final journey to India was one of faith, hope, and healing. Surrounded by family, he sought rejuvenation after decades of public service. His passing reminds Kenyans that even the strongest among us are human—and that true leadership is defined by purpose, not power.
As Kenya mourns, his legacy will live on in the values he fought for: democracy, resilience, and unity.
Read more stories https://www.whispers.co.ke/
See more about Raila https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gzp6ewnqno
