Shock as mourners chant ‘Ruto must go’ at Raila’s Karen home

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October 15, 2025

A section of Kenyans who availed themselves at the Karen home of the late ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga caused anxiety after chanting “Ruto Must Go” slogans.

In a viral video clip seen by Uzalendo News on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, the emotional group of youthful mourners can be seen and heard shouting the phrase repeatedly, expressing disbelief and anger following the sudden death of the former Prime Minister.

Some were filmed waving tree branches, while others sat on the ground crying uncontrollably as chants of “Baba! Baba!” filled the air.

The crowd appeared restless, with some expressing suspicion over Raila’s death, which has shaken the nation and sent shockwaves across Africa.

Security officers were later seen calming the crowd outside the Karen residence as leaders continued arriving to condole with Mama Ida Odinga and the family.

ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, speaking to the media outside the Karen home, urged Kenyans to remain calm and honour Raila Odinga’s legacy with dignity.

He said the late ODM leader was a symbol of peace and justice and would not have wanted his death to cause division.

“Raila Odinga was a mentor and father to all.

“We urge Kenyans to mourn peacefully as we work closely with the family and the government to prepare for his final journey,” Sifuna said.

Earlier, President William Ruto officially confirmed Raila’s death during a televised address from State House, Nairobi.

Flanked by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Raila’s elder brother Oburu Oginga, Ruto described the late opposition leader as Kenya’s foremost statesman.

“Fellow citizens, it is with deep sorrow that I inform the nation of the passing of Rt Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, our former Prime Minister and one of Africa’s greatest sons,” Ruto said.

He added, “Kenya, Africa, and the world mourn the passing of a giant of democracy and a tireless warrior of good governance.

“Raila’s name will be forever etched in the story of our republic, a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, rule of law, hope, and our pursuit of excellence.”

President Ruto declared seven days of national mourning and directed that flags fly at half-mast across Kenya and in all embassies abroad.

He urged citizens to unite in this difficult moment and reflect on Raila’s enduring contribution to Kenya’s democracy.

“Don’t Crowd Raila’s Karen Home” – ODM SG Sifuna Pleads

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has urged party supporters to avoid gathering at former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s Karen residence following reports of his passing.

Speaking at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Sifuna said Mama Ida Odinga was overwhelmed by the large number of supporters showing up to offer their condolences.

The Nairobi Senator mentioned that the party was in discussions with various delegations to establish designated mourning centers where those wishing to pay their respects to ‘Baba’ — as Raila was fondly known — could do so without visiting the family home in Karen.

“We know how much you love Mzee, but when we came from Karen home, it has been overrun and overwhelmed. The space can’t accommodate all the number of people who want to condole,” he stated.

“I want to make a special request as ODM SG, our people must stop going to Mama Ida’s house because she’s there alone and overwhelmed. We understand the love, in fact, the discussions amongst the leadership are that we need to set up points for people who want to mourn Raila, it doesn’t have to be Karen.”

Sifuna is part of a delegation comprising government officials, party leaders, and family members set to travel to India to coordinate the repatriation of Raila Odinga’s body.

The delegation, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, includes Mama Ida Odinga, Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen (Interior) and Hassan Joho (Mining), National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, among others.

This follows a proclamation by President William Ruto, who announced that the Indian government, at Kenya’s request, had agreed to facilitate the repatriation process.

President Ruto further stated that the former Prime Minister will be accorded a state funeral with full honours.

“In consultation with the family, a committee to be co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and my brother, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, has been set up to coordinate the funeral arrangements,” Ruto stated.

Raila died on Wednesday in India, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed condition.

Reports from the Indian authorities indicated that the former PM was taking a walk with his sister, daughter, and a personal doctor when he collapsed and was rushed to a nearby private hospital, where he passed away.

ODM Breaks Silence After Raila’s Death, Outlines Next Steps For Members

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially broken its silence following the death of its party leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Through a press statement signed by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and shared on its official X handle, the party encouraged the Odinga family and supporters to remain united and strong during this difficult moment.

“This morning, we have received the dreadful news of the passing of our party leader and icon, the Rt Hon Raila Odinga, in India, while undergoing treatment. The party and the entire country are in deep shock following the news,” read part of the statement.

Sifuna, writing on behalf of the ODM Party, described Raila as “a beacon of hope in a world filled with despair.”

He added that the late former Prime Minister had been Kenya’s leading political figure for at least three decades, nurturing democratic ideals and inspiring generations of leaders.

“The Rt Hon Odinga has been the leading political figure in this nation for at least three decades, at whose feet democratic ideals have been nurtured and political careers grown.

“He will remain a true giant of our nation and a darling in the hearts of Kenyans for his unwavering fight for justice and firm stand on freedom for all,” Sifuna said.

In the heartfelt statement, ODM urged its members and supporters across the country to observe the week in unity and reflection as they mourn their leader.

“While we process this adverse news and await further updates, I urge all party members to observe the week in unity and rally together as we reflect on the life and times of our leader, a man who has been mentor and father to all, hence the moniker, ‘Baba,’” Sifuna added.

He further said the party will work with the family to plan Raila’s funeral arrangements, assuring that regular updates will be shared in due course.

“We shall be providing regular updates in conjunction with the family as Baba’s funeral rites are planned. May Baba’s soul find deserving rest in heaven,” the statement concluded.

Earlier, President William Ruto officially confirmed Raila’s death in a televised address from State House, Nairobi.

Flanked by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Raila’s elder brother, Oburu Oginga, the Head of State declared seven days of national mourning and ordered all flags to fly at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad.

“Fellow citizens, it is with deep sorrow that I inform the nation of the passing of Rt Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, our former Prime Minister and Kenya’s foremost statesman and one of Africa’s greatest sons,” President Ruto said.

He hailed Raila as “a beacon of courage, a tower of principle, and a father of our democracy,” adding that his legacy will forever be remembered in Kenya’s history.

Raila Odinga, who served as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, died aged 80 at an Ayurvedic eye hospital and research centre in Kerala, India.

His passing has plunged the nation into mourning, with thousands of Kenyans gathering at his Karen and Bondo homes to pay their respects.

Siaya County suspends all official business to allow mourning of Raila Odinga

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

The Siaya County Government has announced the suspension of all official functions following the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing the moment as one of profound loss and national grief.

Governor James Orengo said the prevailing circumstances necessitate a review of ongoing county programmes, including the Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference (SITICO 2025), which Mr Odinga was expected to grace.

“The circumstances dictate a review of the ongoing programme of the Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference. As such, all plenary sessions and side events are postponed to a later date as we join the family and the nation in mourning our departed leader. We deeply regret any inconvenience caused,” said Governor Orengo.

President William Ruto has declared seven days of national mourning in honour of the late Odinga and directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast across the country and at all Kenyan missions abroad.

In an emotional tribute, Governor Orengo hailed Raila Odinga as a statesman whose legacy transcends politics.

“Words fail me to express the shock, deep sorrow and immeasurable grief at the news of the untimely passing of my brother, my friend, my party leader — a statesman and a towering figure of Kenya’s second liberation, and the driving force behind the realisation of the 2010 Constitution,” said Orengo.

He added: “Kenya has lost not just a politician, but a revolutionary, a visionary, and a singular force whose shadow stretched across the most consequential five decades of our history. For the people of Siaya, the entire Luo Nyanza region, and the nation as a whole, we have lost our patriarch — the symbol of resilience and a relentless champion of our political and economic rights.”

The county government said further communication on the rescheduled dates for SITICO 2025 and other official engagements will be issued in due course.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has died on Wednesday in the Indian city of Kochi, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed condition. He was aged 80

FKF suspends all league fixtures to mourn Raila Odinga

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has suspended all the matches scheduled in honor of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga who died on Wednesday morning while undergoing treatment in India.

This follows President William Ruto’s announcement of a seven day national mourning and flags hoisted at half mast.

“Following the Government’s declaration of seven days of National Mourning in honour of the late former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has suspended all league fixtures scheduled during this period.

“We join the nation in mourning a great leader and a passionate supporter of Kenyan football. May his soul rest in peace,” FKF said in a statement sent to newsrooms.

Seven fixtures in the FKF Premier League were scheduled starting Saturday, October 18 where Mara Sugar was to host Bidco United while APS Bomet was away to Kariobangi Sharks.

On Sunday, Kakamega Homeboyz was scheduled to face Ulinzi Stars, Tusker FC was to travel to Murang’a Seal, KCB had been slotted to square it out with AFC Leopards, Shabana was paired with Mathare United while on Monday, Mashujaa Day, Gor Mahia was to play Posta Rangers.

South Africa President Ramaphosa mourns passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sorrow following the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister and opposition leader Raila Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80 in India, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

In an official statement released on Wednesday, Ramaphosa extended condolences on behalf of the South African government and people to Kenya and the Odinga family.

“On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kenya on the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga,” Ramaphosa said.

Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, was widely regarded as a key figure in Kenyan politics and a prominent voice for democracy and reform on the African continent.

According to Indian police, Odinga died on Wednesday morning after collapsing during a walk in Kerala, India. “The death is confirmed,” Krishnan M, additional superintendent of police in Kerala, told AFP.

“The Kenyan national was on a walk with his sister, daughter, and a personal doctor when he suddenly collapsed.”

A spokesperson for the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre confirmed that Odinga experienced breathing difficulties before collapsing. Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to a nearby hospital, doctors were unable to save him.

Born on January 7, 1945, Odinga spent much of his early political life in jail or exile for opposing the autocratic rule of former president Daniel arap Moi.

A member of the Luo tribe, he entered parliament in 1992 and ran unsuccessfully for the presidency in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022, often claiming he had been denied victory through electoral manipulation.

President Ramaphosa described Odinga as “a patriotic and selfless leader” and reflected on their personal and professional relationship.

“The nation of Kenya and our continent have lost a patriotic and selfless leader whom I knew and worked with as a friend and brother,” Ramaphosa said.

“Raila Odinga was committed to the development of his own nation as well as the prosperity and the silencing of the guns on our continent, as evidenced by his appointment by the African Union to advance peace in Côte d’Ivoire in 2010.”

Ramaphosa praised Odinga’s steadfastness and integrity throughout his political career.

“He remained unwaveringly true to his principles and vision in the face of deep personal sacrifice and obstacles and remained a leader who placed the interests of his country and continent first,” the president added.

Odinga’s death marks the end of a long and influential political journey that shaped Kenya’s democratic landscape. Tributes from across Africa continue to pour in, honouring his legacy as a freedom fighter, reformist, and statesman.

Governor Mutula Backs Konza City’s Vision, Urges Fast-Tracking of Key Infrastructure Projects

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. on Monday joined President William Ruto at Konza City for the launch of Phase One of strategic infrastructure Projects critical for the development of the city.

The Governor expressed confidence in the realization of Konza City’s vision, describing recent legislation on the Konza Technopolis as a step in the right direction.

He urged the national government to fast-track key components of the city’s development plan.

Governor Mutula further emphasized the importance of constructing the envisioned Konza International Airport and called for the integration of a Standard Gauge Railway station within Konza City to enhance connectivity.

Responding to concerns raised by the governor, President Ruto said the government is implementing plans to dual the Mombasa Highway between Malili and Emali.

He affirmed the government’s commitment to integrating the SGR with Konza Technopolis in the upcoming phase of development.

President Samia Suluhu mourns the passing of African statesman Raila Odinga

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

World leaders, including Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, have joined millions across Africa in mourning the death of Kenya’s veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday morning October 15, 2025 in Kochi, India.

President Samia expressed deep sorrow upon receiving the news, describing Mr Odinga as a towering statesman, a true Pan-Africanist, a peacemaker, and a seeker of consensus whose influence transcended Kenya’s borders to shape the destiny of East Africa and the continent at large.

“We have lost an astute leader, a Pan-Africanist, a lover of peace and a seeker of solutions whose wisdom and compassion went beyond Kenya to touch the whole of Africa. This is not Kenya’s loss alone, but ours as a continent,” President Samia said in a condolence message posted on her official social media accounts.

She extended heartfelt condolences to Kenya’s President William Ruto, Mama Ida Odinga, the Odinga family, friends, and all the people of Kenya, praying that the Almighty grant them strength and solace during this painful moment.

Mr Odinga, 80, died in the southern Indian city of Kochi after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk.

According to Indian media, he was rushed to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was pronounced dead.

He had travelled to India earlier this month for treatment for an undisclosed condition.

His death has thrown Kenya into mourning and drawn emotional tributes from across the political spectrum.

President William Ruto and the Odinga family, led by his elder brother Dr Oburu Oginga, are expected to address the nation on the passing of the man many regarded as the conscience of Kenya’s democracy.

Mr Odinga was one of Africa’s most enduring political figures.

He served as Kenya’s Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013 in a coalition government formed after the disputed 2007 election that plunged the country into deadly post-election violence.

His political journey, spanning more than four decades, was defined by his struggle for multiparty democracy, constitutional reform, and good governance.

The son of Kenya’s first Vice President, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila inherited his father’s mantle of opposition politics.

He first vied for the presidency in 1997 and made four more attempts thereafter—in 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022.

Despite never ascending to the presidency, his influence remained profound, shaping Kenya’s political landscape and inspiring reform movements across the region.

In 2018, he famously reconciled with then-President Uhuru Kenyatta through the historic “handshake,” an event that helped stabilise Kenya’s tense political environment and demonstrated his lifelong commitment to peace and dialogue.

Mr Odinga’s political career began with his involvement in the National Development Party (NDP), which he later merged with then-President Daniel arap Moi’s Kanu party in 2001.

He served as Energy Minister before breaking ranks with Mr Moi in 2002, joining the coalition that propelled Mwai Kibaki to the presidency.

Throughout his career, Mr Odinga endured imprisonment, exile, and vilification but remained steadfast in his belief in democracy and unity.

His contributions extended beyond politics—he championed education, infrastructure, and regional integration, and was instrumental in forging Kenya’s role within the East African Community.

As tributes continue to pour in from across Africa and beyond, leaders and citizens alike are remembering Mr Odinga not only as a politician but as a visionary who fought tirelessly for justice, equality, and democratic ideals.

Flags are expected to fly at half-mast across Kenya, and a period of national mourning is anticipated as the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its most influential sons.

Mr Odinga is survived by his wife, Mama Ida Odinga, and their children.

SHA Issues Advisory on Refunds for Wrong Premium Payments Via M-Pesa

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

The Social Health Authority (SHA) has issued a notice outlining how members can request refunds for wrong premium payments made through M-Pesa.

In a notice on Wednesday, October 15, SHA said the affected members are required to submit specific documents to facilitate the refund process.

These include a copy of their M-Pesa statement showing the wrong payment, a copy of their National ID, Alien ID, or passport, and a signed letter addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of the Social Health Authority requesting a refund.

SHA indicated that members can submit their documents either electronically or physically; scanned copies can be sent via email to customerservice@sha.go.ke or revintegration@sha.go.ke.

Alternatively, individuals may deliver the original documents to the nearest SHA County Office or Huduma Centre across the country.

The authority emphasized that all submitted documents must be clear and legible to allow for smooth verification.

Refunds will only be processed after the verification of the details provided, ensuring that each claim is valid and supported by proper documentation.

Shops Looted as Chaos Break Out in Nairobi CBD as Kenyans Take to the Streets to Mourn Raila

By

John Mutiso

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October 15, 2025

Shops were looted on Wednesday, October 15, following crowds of Kenyans marching in Nairobi CBD to mourn the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

What began as a peaceful procession to honor the fallen ODM leader quickly descended into chaos as goons infiltrated the mourners and began attacking traders and looting businesses that remained open in the Central Business District.

Hundreds of grieving Kenyans had taken to the streets of Nairobi CBD on Wednesday afternoon to mourn Raila Odinga, who passed away earlier in the day at the age of 80.

The crowd, many carrying whistles and twigs, danced through the streets in traditional mourning fashion, with some overcome with emotion, rolling on the ground, wailing, and tearing their clothes in expressions of grief.

However, the somber atmosphere was shattered when criminal elements infiltrated the peaceful procession and began targeting shops and traders.

Videos circulating on social media show chaotic scenes of people running in different directions as the looting began. Traders scrambled to save their merchandise and close their shops as the situation rapidly deteriorated.

The goons took advantage of the large crowds and emotional atmosphere to launch attacks on businesses, breaking into shops and making off with goods.

Law enforcement officers have been deployed to the CBD to restore order and protect businesses from further attacks.

The chaos erupted on a day when Kenya plunged into mourning following the death of Raila Odinga.

Raila passed away on Wednesday morning after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India, where he had gone to seek treatment.

After his death, hundreds of Kenyans trooped to Raila’s residence in Bondo, marching with green leaves along roads and streets, bringing businesses and transport activities in the town to a halt.

In Kisumu, the situation was no different; businesspeople in Kisumu CBD voluntarily closed all business activities to mourn Raila. Wailing supporters led by hundreds of boda boda riders flooded the streets of Kisumu using motorcycles and whistles.

The residents, describing Raila as their hero, called on the government to suspend all state activities in his honour.

In Kibera, which Raila once represented during his tenure as Kibra MP, residents poured into the streets, wailing and chanting to mourn his death.

At Odinga’s Karen home, supporters flooded his home wailing and emphasising the importance of coming together to honour the former Prime Minister, who was widely celebrated for championing peace and national unity.

In an address to the nation following Raila’s death, President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning to honour the popular national leader.