- A powerful speech resurfaced days after Raila Odinga’s passing, stirring deep emotions and national reflection
- Delegates witnessed a tearful moment as the former prime minister recalled sacrifices made for Kenya’s democracy
- The viral video captured raw emotion and historical memories, as Raila spoke about the formation of ODM and constitutional struggles
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.
Former prime minister and ODM party leader Raila Odinga passed away on Wednesday morning, October 15, 2025, while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Koothattukulam, India.
Source: Facebook
He was 80 years old. According to reports, Raila suffered a heart attack during his stay at an Ayurvedic medical centre, where he had been receiving care.
Did Raila Odinga foresee his death?
Following his death, a deeply emotional video resurfaced showing Raila addressing ODM delegates in Mombasa on Sunday, October 13, a year ago.
In the footage, Raila appeared visibly overwhelmed with emotion as he reflected on the formation of the ODM party and the sacrifices made by Kenyans in the fight for democracy.
“They come to bid me farewell, saying they are going to greet our people. So Kenyans, I am dying—and I am dying on behalf of Kenyans,” Raila said tearfully, drawing an emotional moment from the audience.
Delegates responded with words of encouragement as he struggled to hold back tears.
He recounted the pain of losing comrades during Kenya’s political struggles, describing how some leaders were executed after bidding farewell.
“I feel deep pain when I remember someone you were with comes and tells you, ‘You will not see me again.’ He is taken away and hanged. So when you see us angry, there is a reason,” he added.
Raila also emphasised the cost of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, stating it was won through blood and sacrifice.
He cited the killing of Odhiambo Mbai, who was shot dead in front of his children at his home, as one of the many tragedies that marked the journey toward constitutional reform.
“We brought the Constitution through the sweat and blood of Kenyans,” he said.
Was Raila fighting for Kenyans’ rights?
Raila’s legacy is deeply woven into Kenya’s political fabric.
Source: Facebook
A five-time presidential contender, he was revered for his role in championing multiparty democracy, electoral reforms, and devolution.
His leadership of ODM positioned him as a central figure in opposition politics for over two decades.
International tributes poured in following his death, with leaders across Africa and beyond describing him as a ‘political giant and statesman.’
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging Raila’s contributions to strengthening Kenya-India relations.
How many days will Kenyans mourn Raila?
Back home, President William Ruto convened an emergency National Security Council meeting and a special Cabinet session to coordinate national mourning.
He also remembered the deceased leader as a tireless warrior and recounted his contributions in the country and across Africa.
Ruto declared a seven-day national mourning period in honour of the former prime minister, with flags flown at half-mast across the country.
Kenyans across the country held vigils, shared tributes online, and gathered in Raila’s strongholds to remember him.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
