Cherished friend of India: PM Modi Mourns Death of Former Kenyan PM Raila Odinga

October 15, 2025

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed deep grief over the demise of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away earlier in the day in Koothattukulam, Kerala, after suffering a heart attack during his morning walk. He was 80.

PM Modi Calls Odinga a ‘Cherished Friend of India’

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Modi remembered Odinga as a “towering statesman” and a “cherished friend of India.”

“Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and former Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr Raila Odinga. He was a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India. I had the privilege of knowing him closely since my days as Chief Minister of Gujarat, and our association continued over the years,” PM Modi said.

He added that Odinga had a deep admiration for Indian culture and traditional wisdom, particularly Ayurveda, which he had credited for improving his daughter’s health.

“He had a special affection for India, our culture, values, and ancient wisdom. This was reflected in his efforts to strengthen India–Kenya ties. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and to the people of Kenya in this hour of grief,” Modi said.

Collapsed During Morning Walk in Kerala

Odinga, who had arrived in Koothattukulam six days ago for Ayurvedic treatment, reportedly collapsed around 6:30 a.m. during his morning walk.
He was rushed to the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre, but could not be revived.

Hospital officials confirmed that he was brought in critical condition and pronounced dead shortly after arrival. His body has been kept at Deva Matha Hospital in Koothattukulam.

Odinga was accompanied by his daughter and close family members during his stay in Kerala.

A Towering Figure in Kenyan Politics

A veteran leader with a political career spanning over four decades, Raila Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, a period marked by national reconciliation and constitutional reform.

He was a central figure in Kenyan democracy, known for his grassroots connect, fiery oratory, and advocacy for dialogue and reform.
Odinga played a crucial role in the 2007–08 power-sharing agreement that helped end Kenya’s post-election violence.

As the long-time head of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and a persistent opposition leader, Odinga contested several presidential elections, shaping Kenya’s modern political landscape.

Repatriation Efforts Underway

Officials from the Kenyan Embassy in New Delhi have been informed and are coordinating with the Kerala government and hospital authorities to facilitate the repatriation of Odinga’s body to Nairobi.

Members of the Kenyan diaspora in India and local leaders in Kerala expressed shock and sorrow at the news of his sudden demise.
A formal statement from the Kenyan government is expected to be released soon.