Raila Odinga: The Relentless Struggle for Kenya’s Democracy (1945–2025)

Raila Odinga: The Relentless Struggle for Kenya’s Democracy (1945–2025)

“I may not have reached the mountain top, but I have seen the promised land — a free and fair Kenya.” Raila Amolo Odinga

Nation Mourns a Political Giant

Kenya and the entire African continent are mourning the passing of Raila Amolo Odinga, the long-serving opposition leader, freedom fighter, and former Prime Minister, who died aged 80 in Kochi, India. According to family sources, Raila succumbed to a cardiac arrest while undergoing medical treatment.

His death marks the end of one of Africa’s most inspiring political journeys — a life defined by courage, sacrifice, and an unshakable belief in democracy.

Early Life and Education

Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu County, Raila Odinga was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and a key figure in the nation’s struggle for independence.

He studied Mechanical Engineering at the Technical University of Magdeburg in East Germany, returning to Kenya in the early 1970s. He worked as a lecturer at the University of Nairobi and later founded Spectre International, a gas and energy company before politics called him to a higher cause.

Detention and the Fight for Democracy

During President Daniel arap Moi’s authoritarian rule, Raila joined the underground Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD), which pushed for multiparty politics. In 1982, following the failed coup attempt, he was detained without trial for nearly six years and endured torture and solitary confinement.

He was later re-arrested twice, spending nearly nine years in detention one of the longest political imprisonments in Kenya’s history.

But Raila’s spirit remained unbroken. His release in 1991 came just before Section 2A of the Constitution was repealed, marking Kenya’s return to multiparty democracy — a cause he had personally suffered for.

Political Journey and Leadership

Raila’s first bid for the presidency came in 1997 under the National Development Party (NDP). Though unsuccessful, it marked his rise as a national figure. He later merged NDP with KANU and served as Minister for Energy in 2001 before breaking away again to join the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC), which brought Mwai Kibaki to power in 2002.

His famous “Kibaki Tosha” declaration remains one of Kenya’s most memorable political moments.

 The 2007 Election and Power Sharing

Raila’s second major presidential run in 2007 under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ended in chaos. Disputed results led to post-election violence that left over 1,300 people dead and displaced hundreds of thousands.

Through international mediation led by Kofi Annan, a power-sharing government was formed, and Raila was appointed Prime Minister (2008–2013). During his tenure, he oversaw major infrastructure developments and government reforms that stabilized the country.

The 2010 Constitution and Reform Legacy

One of Raila’s most enduring contributions is his role in the creation and adoption of the 2010 Constitution, which introduced devolution and redefined Kenya’s governance.

He consistently advocated for social justice, human rights, and equal opportunity — values that continue to shape Kenyan politics today.

The Handshake and the BBI Era

In 2018, after another disputed election, Raila shocked the nation by reconciling with President Uhuru Kenyatta in the historic Handshake. The move calmed political tensions and led to the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) — a bold, if controversial, attempt to address national unity, inclusivity, and governance reform.

Though the BBI process was halted by the courts, it reflected Raila’s belief that dialogue and peace were greater than power.

Continental Leadership and Vision

Raila Odinga was appointed African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development, where he championed Pan-African projects and economic connectivity.

He often emphasized that Africa’s liberation was incomplete without development, democracy, and dignity for all its people.

Tributes and National Mourning

President William Ruto led tributes, calling him “a patriot whose vision for a just Kenya will never fade.”

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta described Raila as “a brother in struggle and a man who gave his all to his country.”

Across Kisumu, Nairobi, and Mombasa, Kenyans gathered for candlelight vigils, singing songs of freedom and waving orange flags in memory of the man they called “Baba.”

Legacy of a Freedom Fighter

Raila Odinga’s story is the story of modern Kenya — a tale of resilience, defiance, and hope.

He inspired generations to speak truth to power and taught that democracy must be defended, even at personal cost.

He is survived by his wife, Mama Ida Odinga, and children Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie, following the earlier passing of his son Fidel Odinga.

“Raila Odinga will forever remain the voice of the people — the man who endured suffering so that Kenya could breathe freedom.”

Jaba Planet Tribute, 2025