Siaya Governor James Orengo has described the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as a profound shock, emphasizing that the late leader had not shown any indications of serious illness before his sudden collapse.
Odinga, a veteran politician and long-time opposition leader, died on 15 October 2025 in India while undergoing medical treatment, following a cardiac arrest during a morning walk, according to official reports.
Speaking in an interview with NTV on Monday night, Orengo said the news was unexpected both personally and politically.
“It came as a great shock because he had not shown any signs of being seriously unwell,” the governor said, highlighting the sudden nature of the loss.
Orengo, who has worked closely with Odinga within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) for decades, described the former Prime Minister as a pivotal figure in Kenya’s democratic evolution.
Raila Odinga’s passing triggered widespread national mourning. President William Ruto declared seven days of mourning, ordering flags at half-mast and directing that state institutions observe solemnity during the period.
Odinga’s body was flown back to Kenya and lay in state at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, allowing the public to pay their respects before a state funeral and burial at his family home in Bondo, Siaya County.
Orengo highlighted Odinga’s long-standing role in promoting multiparty democracy and social justice, noting that his contributions shaped Kenya’s political landscape over more than three decades.
“Raila dedicated his life to public service and to the defense of democratic principles,” Orengo said.
He urged Kenyans and political leaders to continue upholding the values Odinga championed, including fairness, accountability, and civic engagement.
The sudden nature of Odinga’s death has underscored the fragility of leadership transitions within Kenya’s political parties.
Within ODM, the loss has prompted discussions about the future of the party and the continuation of Odinga’s policy priorities, though Orengo stressed that honoring his legacy should take precedence over internal politics.
For Governor Orengo, the passing of Raila Odinga represents not only a personal loss but also a national moment of reflection on the contributions of one of Kenya’s most influential political leaders.