Siaya Governor James Orengo has said the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga came as a complete shock, noting that the veteran leader had shown no signs of being critically ill before his sudden collapse.
Speaking during an interview on NTV, Orengo said Odinga’s passing deeply stunned his family, members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), and the country at large.
“It came as a great shock because he had not shown any signs of being seriously unwell,” Orengo said, highlighting how unexpected the loss was for a leader who remained active in public and political life until his final days.
Odinga died on October 15, 2025, while in India, where he had been receiving medical treatment. Reports indicated that he suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk.
Orengo’s remarks echoed the widespread grief that swept across the country following Odinga’s death. His body was later flown back to Kenya, where thousands of mourners gathered at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to pay their respects, followed by emotional ceremonies in Nairobi.
The government declared a seven-day period of national mourning, during which flags were flown at half-mast. A state funeral was held before Odinga was laid to rest at his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County.
During the interview, Orengo also reflected on Odinga’s long political journey, describing him as a tireless champion of multiparty democracy, social justice, and constitutional freedoms.
He urged Kenyans and political leaders to safeguard the democratic gains Odinga fought for, warning that such hard-won freedoms should never be taken for granted.
According to Orengo, while Odinga may be gone, the ideals he stood for must continue to guide the nation forward.
