Influential African Political Leader Raila Odinga Passes Away at 80
Raila Odinga, an influential African political leader and former Prime Minister of Kenya, has passed away at the age of 80. His death occurred on Wednesday due to a heart attack while he was in India. Odinga was in Kerala State, where he collapsed during a morning walk.
The Devamatha Hospital confirmed that attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful. His political career was marked by multiple campaigns for the presidency, which showcased his ability to mobilize significant public support.
Political Journey of Raila Odinga
Odinga’s political life spanned over three decades, during which he contested for the presidency five times. His ambitions were particularly evident in the 2007 elections, where he narrowly lost to incumbent President Mwai Kibaki. This election was marked by controversy and ethnic violence, a reflection of the tribal dynamics in Kenyan politics.
Key Achievements and Collaborations
Despite never securing the presidency, Odinga was a pivotal figure in promoting multi-party democracy in Kenya. In recent times, he formed a political alliance with Kenyan President William Ruto. This agreement enabled Odinga’s opposition party to participate in vital government policymaking, with members included in the cabinet.
- Born: 1943
- Cause of Death: Heart attack
- Death Location: Kerala State, India
- Political Parties: Opposition party (not specified)
- Presidential Elections: Five times, most notably in 2007
The 2007 Presidential Election
The 2007 election was a significant moment in Odinga’s career. He garnered about 44% of the vote, closely trailing Kibaki’s 46%. This narrow margin marked one of the most competitive elections in Kenyan history.
Throughout his political journey, Odinga drew support from a diverse coalition of leaders across various ethnic groups, positioning himself as a unifying figure in a nation often divided along tribal lines. His legacy will endure, reflecting his role as a champion of democratic governance in Kenya.
