Kenya and the world are today reflecting on the remarkable life and political journey of Raila Amolo Odinga, the former Prime Minister whose influence over the country’s democracy and governance spanned more than four decades.
Odinga, who has died at the age of 80, leaves behind a legacy defined by courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
A champion of multiparty democracy
In the early 1990s, Odinga was among the leaders who fought tirelessly for the repeal of Kenya’s one-party rule, paving the way for the restoration of multiparty democracy. His activism, which at times saw him detained, helped expand political freedoms and inspired a generation to demand reform.
His efforts were instrumental in the creation of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, which ushered in devolution, enhanced human rights, and established stronger checks on executive power.
The opposition leader who never quit
Odinga ran for president five times without success, yet his political determination remained unmatched. His campaigns often energized millions across the country and turned opposition politics into a legitimate and powerful force for accountability.
Even in defeat, he refused to retreat. His persistence kept Kenya’s democracy vibrant—pushing electoral bodies and governments to higher standards of transparency and fairness.
Bridge-builder after national crisis
Following the violent aftermath of the 2007 presidential election, Odinga entered into a historic power-sharing deal that birthed the Grand Coalition Government, where he served as Prime Minister (2008–2013).
The move, though controversial, was widely credited with stabilizing the country and restoring peace after one of the darkest chapters in Kenya’s history.
Champion of devolution and inclusive governance
Odinga’s vision for devolution became one of his most tangible legacies. He believed that power and resources should be distributed to the grassroots—an idea now enshrined in law and central to Kenya’s political structure.
He consistently pushed for inclusive governance, calling for fairness across regions, ethnicities, and social classes, and advocating for women and youth participation in politics.
A legacy of mentorship and service
Beyond politics, Odinga invested in education and youth development. He established the Raila Education Centre in Kibera to support children from low-income backgrounds, and plans were underway for a Raila Odinga Leadership Academy to nurture young African leaders.
These initiatives cemented his role as not just a politician, but also a mentor and visionary builder.
A contested but unforgettable figure
While hailed as a liberator by supporters, Odinga also faced criticism over his alliances, protests, and political compromises. Yet even his fiercest critics acknowledge his unmatched contribution to Kenya’s democratic evolution.
Opinion polls over the years have consistently ranked him among the most influential Kenyans—a testament to his enduring impact on national discourse.
A lasting mark on Kenya’s story
As Kenya mourns, Raila Odinga’s life stands as a testament to perseverance and patriotism. His vision of a just, democratic, and equitable nation remains deeply woven into the country’s political fabric.
For millions of Kenyans, he was more than a politician—he was a symbol of hope, resistance, and the ongoing struggle for a better Kenya.
Reporting by Western Kenya Times Staff
