Raila Odinga's Passing Marks End of an Era in Kenya's Politics
Kenya's political landscape has witnessed significant shifts, with the recent passing of opposition leader Raila Odinga. His influence, like that of former Kanu Secretary General Joseph Kamotho, has left a lasting impact on the nation's political scene.
Odinga's political journey began in 2002, when he was elected as the Lang'ata MP, marking the start of his prominent role in Kenyan politics. His rise to power was not without challenges, including the endorsement of a merger between his National Development Party (NDP) and the then-ruling Kanu party, which led to the formation of 'New Kanu'. This move saw the influential Kanu Secretary General Joseph Kamotho, who had served under President Moi, being discarded.
Odinga's influence extended beyond his party. He served as the Prime Minister in the Grand Coalition Government from 2008 to 2013, and later became the Leader of the Opposition. His passing on October 19, 2025, was mourned by a wide range of political figures, including Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa and Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi, as well as condolences from other African leaders like South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Odinga's political career, spanning over two decades, has left an indelible mark on Kenya's political landscape. His influence, much like that of Prof George Saitoti and Joseph Kamotho before him, has shaped the nation's political dynamics. Despite several vice and deputy presidents finding themselves in supporting roles to Odinga, his legacy as a key figure in Kenya's political history remains undisputed.
