Dennis Onyango Clarifies Raila Odinga’s Passing: Natural Causes, No Foul Play

Dennis Onyango, long-serving aide to the late Raila Odinga, has addressed circulating speculation regarding the former Prime Minister’s death, asserting that Odinga passed away due to natural causes. 

Onyango strongly dismissed suggestions of foul play, labeling them as politically motivated attempts by individuals seeking relevance.

Onyango’s Account

Speaking publicly, Onyango recounted that he had interacted with Odinga just days before his final trip abroad. He described the opposition leader as being in relatively stable condition, engaged in discussions about ODM’s 20th-anniversary celebrations.

“Whatever Raila was ailing from was not something that could have killed anyone. From a layperson, it was not something that could kill anybody when he was leaving here,” Onyango stated, emphasizing that the death resulted from “natural attrition” and old age.

He also directly countered remarks by Siaya Governor James Orengo, who had suggested that Odinga’s passing remained a “mystery” that needed to be solved. Onyango called such insinuations “nonsense,” urging Kenyans to respect the truth and the late leader’s legacy.

Family and Public Response

The Odinga family has echoed a message of unity and healing. In a recent Facebook post commemorating what would have been Raila’s birthday, they thanked the Government of India for assisting with the swift repatriation of the body and expressed gratitude to Kenyans for their support. 

The family emphasized honoring Odinga’s life and contributions rather than dwelling on controversies surrounding his death.

Call for National Closure

Onyango’s statement serves as a reminder that those closest to Raila have accepted his passing and encourage the nation to focus on his enduring legacy. 

“I am one of those who believe in Raila’s death,” Onyango affirmed, urging citizens to allow the matter to rest.

As political debate intensifies ahead of the 2027 elections, Onyango’s firsthand account aims to curb unfounded speculation and preserve the memory of a statesman dedicated to public service.