Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga Dies at 80 From Heart Attack During Kerala Visit

Raila Odinga, a pivotal architect of Kenya's modern democratic landscape, has unexpectedly passed away.

Kochi:

Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, aged 80, died on Wednesday morning after experiencing a severe heart attack during his regular morning exercise in Koothattukulam, Kerala.

Odinga, who had traveled to Kerala for Ayurvedic treatment, suddenly collapsed and was immediately transported to Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre, where medical professionals were unable to save him.

His remains are currently situated at Deva Matha Hospital in Koothattukulam.

The former Prime Minister had arrived in Koothattukulam six days prior, traveling with his daughter and immediate family members. He had established a daily routine of morning walks alongside his treatment regimen at the hospital.

According to local officials, the cardiac event occurred approximately at 6:30 a.m. while he was walking, and he reached the medical facility in a critical state.

A commanding presence in Kenya's political arena for more than four decades, Odinga served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, during a critical period of national healing and constitutional transformation.

Renowned for his passionate oratory and strong grassroots connections, he was instrumental in molding Kenya's contemporary democratic framework.

Odinga played a crucial role in negotiating the power-sharing agreement that resolved the post-election violence of 2007-08, establishing himself as a national figure who championed dialogue and systemic reform.

Additionally, he led the opposition as head of the Orange Democratic Movement for many years. He participated in multiple presidential campaigns and remained among Kenya's most influential political personalities.

His political journey was characterized by intense political confrontations as well as dedicated efforts to create a more representative political system.

Representatives from the Kenyan Embassy in New Delhi have been notified and are working with Kerala government officials and hospital administrators to arrange for the repatriation of his remains.

Local community leaders and Kenyan expatriates have expressed profound shock and sorrow at his unexpected death.

An official announcement from the Kenyan government is anticipated shortly.

(This report has not undergone editing by NDTV staff and is automatically generated from a syndicated source.)