Kenyans across the political divide are mourning the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday morning in India.
Odinga had been hospitalised for more than two weeks while receiving medical treatment at a hospital in India.
Reports indicate that he collapsed during his routine morning walk and was rushed to Devamatha Hospital, where doctors confirmed he had suffered a cardiac arrest.
According to the hospital’s statement, despite extensive resuscitation efforts, he did not respond to treatment and was declared dead at 09:52 a.m. local time (04:22 GMT).
President William Ruto paid tribute to the late Odinga, describing him as a “beacon of courage” and the “father of our democracy.”
“Raila Amolo Odinga is truly a once-in-a-generation leader — a man whose ideals transcended politics and whose legacy will shape the destiny of Kenya for generations to come,” Ruto said in a live address to the nation.
President Ruto also declared a seven-day period of national mourning in honour of the late statesman, during which flags will fly at half-mast.
He further announced that Raila Odinga will be accorded a state funeral with full honours.
Meanwhile, CCTV footage has emerged showing Raila Odinga’s final moments before he collapsed and died.
He was walking smoothly, accompanied by his bodyguard.
Here is the CCTV footage
