Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has shared a heartfelt tribute to the late Raila Odinga, terming his death a 'nightmare' she struggles to accept. In a social media post on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Governor Wanga revealed she had spoken with Odinga just two days before his demise, finding him 'full of life, jokes and laughter'.

Their conversation, she recounted, revolved around the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) 20th-anniversary activities and upcoming by-elections, with Odinga reportedly planning an early return the following week. Odinga, aged 80, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from a cardiac arrest while undergoing medical treatment in Koothattukulam, Kerala, India.

A Political Father Figure and Mentor

Governor Wanga described Odinga not merely as a political mentor but as a profound father figure who significantly shaped her leadership journey. Having lost her biological father early in life, she stated that Odinga filled that void in her political career. She recalled his embrace and 'enrollment' into the 'Raila Odinga Academy of Leadership' when she contested for Homa Bay Woman Representative against formidable opponents.

Wanga, who made history as Homa Bay County's first female Governor in 2022, has been an integral figure within the ODM party, serving as Secretary to the ODM Central Management Committee since 2018 and previously as the Homa Bay County ODM Chairperson.

Consistency, Conviction, and Vision

Wanga lauded Odinga as a man of unwavering consistency and conviction, whose beliefs remained steadfast regardless of the time of day. She highlighted his unwavering commitment to devolution and democracy, even when such stances were unpopular.

Odinga's vision for Kenya, she noted, was unparalleled, and he was instrumental in building ODM into a national political powerhouse. The ODM party is currently celebrating its 20th anniversary with a series of events from October 10 to October 12, 2025, in Mombasa.

Historical and Political Context

Raila Odinga was a towering figure in Kenyan politics for over four decades, known for his relentless fight for multi-party democracy and constitutional reforms. He served as Kenya's Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and was a Member of Parliament for Langata Constituency from 1992 to 2013. Odinga's advocacy for constitutional change dates back to the 1982 coup attempt, leading to his detention for a total of nine years. He was instrumental in the creation of the 2010 Constitution, which established a two-tiered, 47-county power-sharing system and significantly curtailed presidential powers.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Following the news of Odinga's death, an outpouring of grief and tributes has been witnessed across Kenya and beyond. President William Ruto declared a seven-day period of national mourning and described Odinga as a 'giant of democracy, a fearless freedom fighter, and tireless warrior of good governance'. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also paid his condolences, remembering Odinga as a 'friend and a brother' and a 'defining part of my own journey'. Mama Ida Odinga, Raila's widow, addressed the public, appealing for calm amidst emotional scenes at their Karen residence.

Risks and Implications

Odinga's death leaves a significant leadership vacuum within Kenya's political opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election. His passing has led to emotional reactions among his supporters, with some chanting 'No Raila, no peace' at his Karen home, underscoring the potential for political instability in the wake of his absence.

Timeline and Next Steps

• Wednesday, October 15, 2025: Raila Odinga passes away in India.
• Wednesday, October 15, 2025: Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga posts an emotional tribute on Facebook.
• October 10-12, 2025: Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) celebrates its 20th anniversary in Mombasa.
• Ongoing: National mourning period declared by President William Ruto.
• Upcoming: Funeral arrangements to be coordinated by a committee co-chaired by the Deputy President and Odinga's elder brother, Senator Oburu.

What to Watch

The nation will be closely watching the funeral arrangements and the political landscape in the coming weeks and months. The ODM party's direction and leadership in the post-Odinga era will be a key focus, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.