A Nation Mourns: The Legacy of Raila Odinga, Kenya’s “People’s President”
Kenya Mourns the Loss of Raila Odinga: A Political Titan and People’s President
Nyamira, Kenya — As the echo of a 17-gun salute resonated through the tranquil Nyamira village on Sunday evening, followed by the roar of a military fly-past, a profound silence enveloped the nation. The coffin of Raila Amolo Odinga, a man who never donned the ultimate political crown yet reigned in the hearts of millions, lay at the center of this emotional farewell.
Odinga’s passing at the age of 80 last week has sent shockwaves across Kenya, leaving a void that analysts describe as nearly irreplaceable. Comparisons to Nelson Mandela, who became South Africa’s first black president after the end of apartheid, have emerged, highlighting Odinga’s role as a beacon of hope for many.
“Raila belonged to that rare class of political personalities who transcend the ordinary calculus of power and ambition. Like Mandela, he carried the burden of a people’s hopes,” remarked Kenyan historian Chebii Kiprono in an interview with the BBC.
From social media to nightclubs, the strains of his favorite reggae song, “Jamaican Farewell,” continue to fill the air, serving as a poignant reminder of the man and the movement he inspired. The burial ceremony was a unique blend of state honors, spiritual farewells, and political reflection for one of Africa’s most resilient figures.
Under the scorching sun, crowds waved handkerchiefs to dab away tears and sweat, chanting “Jowi! Jowi! Jowi!”—a stirring tribute rooted in the rich traditions of the Luo people, who honor their dead with elaborate rituals. In Luo, “Jowi” means buffalo, a symbol of bravery and legacy.
The very state that Odinga often challenged came together to honor him with full military rites, a stark contrast to the years he spent imprisoned without trial. Political analyst Wafula Buke poignantly noted, “Odinga was buried by his enemies,” reflecting on the complex relationship between the late leader and the government.
“Those who threw tear gas and bullets at Raila now watch, clean… We are deleted from his last story on earth,” Buke added, emphasizing the irony of the moment.
Dr. Kiprono described Odinga as “one of the last genuine revolutionaries of modern Africa.” For decades, he was a staunch advocate for multi-party democracy, a towering figure who kept Kenya’s political landscape vibrant and competitive.
His absence is felt not only within the opposition but also within President William Ruto’s government, which has relied on Odinga’s influence to navigate growing public discontent. “Without Raila, Kenya will be a radically different country,” warned Salim Lone, a long-time confidante of Odinga.
As Odinga’s body was finally laid to rest, it became clear that Kenya is closing a significant chapter in its democratic struggle. President Ruto, while eulogizing Odinga, stated, “In his passing, our nation, our continent, and our world have lost a titan of conscience.”
Idah Odinga, Raila’s widow, reflected on their 52 years of marriage, admitting she never anticipated marrying a political engineer. Veteran politician Koigi wa Wamwere expressed concern over the timing of Odinga’s death, stating, “This was not the time for Raila to die.”
In the absence of a formidable national figure like Odinga, fears of a heavy-handed state response to dissent loom large. “The political order Raila helped shape is being tested,” warned lawyer Chris Omore.
Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party is already facing internal turmoil, with factions divided over whether to support Ruto’s re-election bid in the 2027 general election. Just days before his death, Odinga hinted at the possibility of ODM fielding its own presidential candidate, a move that could significantly challenge Ruto’s prospects amid rising public discontent.
As Kenya grapples with the loss of a political giant, some analysts believe this moment could pave the way for a shift away from personality-driven politics toward a more inclusive democracy. “Other younger people are going to step out to continue with Odinga’s political mission and ideological struggle,” asserted political commentator Barrack Muluka.
As the nation mourns, the legacy of Raila Odinga will undoubtedly illuminate Kenya’s democratic path for generations to come.
