Raila Amolo Odinga, also known as Baba, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and iconic opposition leader, died this morning at age 80. Son of the country’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila followed in his father’s footsteps — challenging the political establishment while also being drawn into government roles.
Though he never won the presidency after five attempts, Raila was instrumental in shaping Kenya’s modern democracy. He championed the 2010 Constitution, led the country as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, and in recent years became a voice of national unity, supporting dialogue over division, even entering into a political agreement with President William Ruto in 2025.
His death could significantly impact Ruto’s 2027 re-election prospects, especially in regions where Raila held moral authority.
Regionally, Raila maintained strong ties with Uganda’s opposition leaders, Bobi Wine and Kizza Besigye — but had strained relations with President Yoweri Museveni.
He leaves behind a towering legacy of resistance, reform, and reconciliation in Kenyan and African politics.
