PM Modi Condoles Death Of Kenya’s Ex-PM Raila Odinga, Calls Him Cherished Friend Of India | India News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed grief over the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80 in Kerala’s Koothattukulam after suffering a heart attack during his morning walk.

Prime Minister Modi, who referred to Odinga as a “dear friend of India”, recalled their meeting during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat.

Odinga, who was in the state for Ayurvedic treatment, suddenly fell ill and was taken to Sreedhareeyam Ayurveda Eye Hospital and Research Center, but could not be revived. His body was kept at Deva Matha Hospital in Koothattukulam.

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“He had a special love for India, our culture, values ​​and ancient wisdom. This was reflected in his efforts to strengthen India-Kenya ties. He was particularly fascinated by Ayurveda and India’s traditional medical systems and witnessed their positive impact on his daughter’s health. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and the people of Kenya at this time of grief.”

Odinga had arrived in Koothattukulam six days ago with his daughter and close family members.

He was following his routine morning walks and treatment sessions at the hospital.

Local officials said that the heart attack occurred while he was walking around 6.30 in the morning and he was hospitalized in critical condition.

A major figure in Kenyan politics for more than four decades, Odinga served as the country’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, during a key period of national reconciliation and constitutional reform.

Known for his fiery speeches and grassroots connections, he was a central figure in shaping modern Kenyan democracy.

Emerging as a national leader advocating dialogue and reform, he played a key role in the power-sharing agreement that ended the 2007-08 post-election violence.

Odinga was also a long-time opposition leader and chairman of the Orange Democratic Movement.

He participated in many presidential elections and remained one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures.

His career has been marked by both fierce political struggles and efforts to build a more inclusive political system.

Officials of the Kenyan Embassy in New Delhi have been informed and are coordinating with the Kerala government and hospital authorities to repatriate the body.

Local leaders and members of the Kenyan diaspora expressed shock and sadness at his death.

An official statement from the Kenyan government is expected soon.