Who is Raila Odinga?
Raila Amolo Odinga was a Kenyan statesman, businessman, and long-time opposition leader widely regarded as the “father of modern Kenyan democracy.” Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kisumu County, he was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President after independence.
When was Raila Odinga born and when did he die?
Raila was born on January 7, 1945, and died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80, while receiving treatment in Kochi, India, for an undisclosed condition.
Where did Raila Odinga go to school and university?
He attended Maranda High School before proceeding to Herder Institute in East Germany and later Magdeburg Technical University, where he graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1970. He later taught at the University of Nairobi and founded an engineering firm, Spectre International.
When did Raila Odinga join politics?
Raila entered politics in the early 1980s, initially opposing the one-party rule of President Daniel arap Moi. His involvement in the 1982 coup attempt against Moi’s regime led to his imprisonment for nearly nine years. His political activism thereafter helped shape Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy in the 1990s.
What political positions did he hold?
He served as:
- Member of Parliament for Lang’ata (1992–2013)
- Minister for Energy (2001–2002)
- Minister for Roads, Public Works and Housing (2003–2005)
- Prime Minister of Kenya (2008–2013) under President Mwai Kibaki in the Grand Coalition Government following the disputed 2007 election.
How many times did Raila Odinga run for President?
Raila vied for Kenya’s presidency five times — in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022 — coming close to victory in several contests that were marred by controversy, allegations of rigging, and disputed results.
Why was Raila Odinga jailed?
He was detained without trial from 1982 to 1988 and again between 1989 and 1991 over allegations of involvement in the failed 1982 coup. These years of imprisonment cemented his image as a fearless defender of democracy and human rights.
Why did Raila Odinga lose elections?
Analysts cite a mix of ethnic bloc politics, powerful state machinery, and deeply entrenched electoral irregularities. His reformist message resonated with many Kenyans, but electoral systems often tilted in favor of ruling regimes.
Who is Raila Odinga’s wife and family?
Raila was married to Mama Ida Betty Odinga for over 50 years. They had four children: Fidel (deceased), Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie Odinga. His family has long been influential in public service, activism, and business.
Who is Raila Odinga Junior?
Raila Odinga Jr. is the youngest son of Raila and Ida Odinga. He is a businessman and political strategist involved in youth mobilization and development projects aligned with his father’s legacy.
What religion was Raila Odinga?
He was a Christian, a member of the Anglican Church of Kenya, though known to frequently attend diverse church denominations across the country.
Which countries supported Raila Odinga?
Throughout his political journey, Raila maintained close diplomatic relations with Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, and the United States. He also enjoyed goodwill from Western democracies and European Union partners, who viewed him as a reformist voice in Africa.
Which countries voted for Raila Odinga?
In Kenyan elections, Raila traditionally drew strong support from Nyanza, Western, Coast, and Nairobi counties, with significant backing among urban youth and pro-reform movements.
Where is Raila Odinga’s home located?
Raila’s main residence was in Karen, Nairobi, with ancestral roots and a family home in Bondo, Siaya County, where he is expected to be buried.
What is Raila Odinga’s net worth?
As of 2024 estimates, Raila’s net worth was reportedly around USD 250 million, largely from his investments in energy, gas, and real estate through Spectre International and East African Spectre Ltd.
What is Raila Odinga doing now / what was he doing before his death?
Before his passing, Raila had been serving as the African Union’s Special Envoy for Infrastructure Development in Africa (2018–2023) and continued to champion governance reforms and Pan-African integration.
What languages could Raila Odinga speak?
Raila was fluent in English, Kiswahili, German, and Dholuo, often using all four in his public addresses.
What was Raila Odinga’s religion and philosophy?
A devout Christian and social democrat, Raila championed equality, constitutionalism, and African self-determination — often referencing liberation theology and Pan-Africanism in his speeches.
When was Raila Odinga prime minister?
He served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, a period credited with major constitutional reforms and the establishment of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution.
Which university did Raila Odinga graduate from?
He graduated from Magdeburg Technical University (Germany) in 1970, earning a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering.
Who cursed Raila Odinga?
This is a long-standing political myth — often used symbolically by rivals. There is no verified evidence of any “curse.” It’s rooted in Kenya’s folklore and political propaganda rather than fact.
How did Raila Odinga die?
Raila Odinga passed away in Kochi, India, on October 15, 2025, after collapsing during a morning walk while receiving treatment at a medical facility. His death was confirmed by family and medical authorities.
What was Raila Odinga’s role in Africa?
Raila was one of Africa’s most respected pro-democracy leaders, Pan-African reformers, and mediators. He helped resolve political crises in countries like South Sudan and Zimbabwe and served as an African Union Special Envoy.
Raila Odinga’s life was a tapestry of resilience, reform, and relentless pursuit of justice. Whether admired or criticized, his imprint on Kenya’s political history is indelible — that of a man who dared to dream of a freer, fairer, and more democratic nation.
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