ODM leaders led by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Chairperson Gladys Wanga, and former Deputy Party Leader Ali Hassan Joho have mourned former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as a visionary and fearless reformist whose leadership defined Kenya’s democracy.
Nairobi, Kenya – October 15, 2025- The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders have expressed deep sorrow following the death of the party’s leader and former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a selfless patriot whose courage and sacrifice defined Kenya’s struggle for democracy.
In a joint message shared shortly after news of his passing, ODM officials said the party had lost not only its leader but also the heartbeat of Kenya’s opposition politics.
“Baba was more than a leader — he was an idea, a movement, and a vision of what Kenya could become,” said ODM National Chairman John Mbadi. “His courage, consistency, and love for this nation will continue to inspire generations.”
ODM Secretary-General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna described Odinga’s death as a devastating loss for the party and the nation, urging Kenyans to remain united in mourning and reflection.
“Kenya has lost a statesman, and ODM has lost its father. Raila Odinga’s entire life was a testimony of resilience, sacrifice, and love for country,” Sifuna said.
ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga said the late leader stood as the conscience of the nation, adding that his name would forever be synonymous with Kenya’s democratic journey.
“We will honour his legacy by standing firm for justice, peace, and equality — the ideals he lived and died for,” said Governor Wanga.
Former ODM Deputy Party Leader Ali Hassan Joho, who currently serves as the Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Minerals, also joined in mourning Odinga, describing him as a mentor and political father whose vision shaped Kenya’s democratic identity.
“Raila Odinga was a man of courage and conviction, a visionary whose dream was always a united and prosperous Kenya,” Joho said.
Several ODM governors, senators, and MPs are expected to converge at the Odinga family home in Karen and later in Kisumu to pay their respects.
The party’s National Executive Council is scheduled to meet later this week to plan its formal participation in the funeral arrangements in consultation with the Odinga family.
Raila Odinga, 80, died Wednesday morning in Kerala, India, where he was undergoing Ayurvedic treatment.
