Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Wednesday. Odinga died at the age of 80 in Koothattukulam, Kerala, following a heart attack during his morning walk. PM Modi called him a “cherished friend of India” and recalled their association since his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister.
Odinga had arrived in Kerala six days ago for Ayurvedic treatment. He collapsed around 6:30 a.m. and was rushed to Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital but could not be revived. His body is kept at Deva Matha Hospital, Koothattukulam, pending repatriation.
A towering figure in Kenyan politics for over four decades, Odinga served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. He played a key role in national reconciliation after post-election violence and was a long-time opposition leader heading the Orange Democratic Movement.
PM Modi noted Odinga’s admiration for Indian culture, Ayurveda, and efforts to strengthen India-Kenya ties. Kenyan embassy officials in New Delhi are coordinating with Kerala authorities for the body’s repatriation. Local leaders and the Kenyan diaspora expressed shock and grief, while a formal statement from the Kenyan government is awaited.
