A somber mood is expected to engulf Parliament Buildings in Nairobi as legislators gather for a full-day eulogy session dedicated to the former Prime Minister. Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang'ula, announced that the session will run from 10:00 AM to midnight East Africa Time (EAT), ensuring all 349 Members of Parliament have an opportunity to speak.

The decision to hold an extended tribute session followed a motion of adjournment moved by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah and seconded by Minority Leader Junet Mohammed on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Speaker Wetang'ula has urged members to wear black attire and ribbons as a sign of respect for the departed leader.

Historical and Political Context

Raila Amolo Odinga, born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics for over four decades. The son of Kenya's first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila's political journey was marked by significant contributions to the nation's democratic evolution.

He was a vocal opponent of one-party rule in the 1980s, leading to his detention without trial for six years after being accused of involvement in a 1982 coup attempt. Amnesty International recognized him as a Prisoner of Conscience in 1991 for his peaceful advocacy for multiparty democracy and constitutional reform. Upon his return from exile in 1992, he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Lang'ata Constituency, a seat he held until 2013.

Odinga played a pivotal role in the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution, which enshrined key human rights protections and expanded civic freedoms. He served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 in a coalition government following the disputed 2007 presidential election, which triggered widespread ethnic violence.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

The parliamentary tribute will be recorded through an exceptional motion, a procedural allowance that exempts it from the usual House resolutions limiting debate time on motions. This ensures ample time for all members to deliver their eulogies. While Kenya does not have a single codified law for state funerals, the sitting President typically declares such an event for individuals of exceptional national contribution.

President William Ruto has declared a seven-day national mourning period, during which national flags will fly at half-mast across Kenya and at all diplomatic missions abroad. Odinga will be accorded a state funeral with full military honours, a decision that underscores his significant national impact.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

News of Odinga's passing on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in India, where he was receiving treatment for a cardiac arrest, sent shockwaves across the nation. Many Members of Parliament, particularly from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, were visibly emotional, with some breaking down in tears during preliminary announcements in Parliament.

Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, among others, attributed his political rise to Odinga's mentorship, describing him as a father figure. Tributes have poured in from across Kenya and the world, recognizing Odinga's commitment to justice, democracy, and the rule of law.

Evidence/Data Box

• Date of Passing: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest in India
• Age at Death: 80 years
• National Mourning Period: Seven days, declared by President William Ruto
• Parliamentary Tribute Session: Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 10:00 AM to midnight EAT
• State Funeral: To be accorded with full military honours

Risks and Implications

Odinga's death marks the end of an era for Kenyan politics, given his enduring influence as an opposition leader and a key driver of democratic reforms. His absence leaves a significant void in the political landscape, particularly for the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya Coalition Party, which he led. The long-term implications for political alliances and future elections remain to be seen.

Unknowns and Controversies

While the immediate focus is on mourning, the circumstances surrounding Odinga's final moments in India may prompt further public interest. Details regarding his specific treatment in an Ayurvedic eye hospital in Kerala, India, and the exact sequence of events leading to his cardiac arrest, are still emerging.

Timeline and Next Steps

The National Assembly's special sitting on Thursday, October 16, 2025, will be followed by the state funeral, the details of which are being coordinated by the government. A delegation, including Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah and Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, along with Cabinet Secretaries and members of the Odinga family, including Mama Ida Odinga, are expected to travel to Mumbai, India, to accompany Odinga's body back to Kenya.

What to Watch

Kenyans will be keenly watching the state funeral proceedings and the outpouring of tributes from national and international leaders. The unity displayed by political rivals in mourning Odinga's passing could signal a period of reduced political tensions, at least in the short term. The future leadership of the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya Coalition Party will also be a key development to monitor.

Related stories will likely focus on Odinga's extensive political career, his impact on constitutional reforms, and the legacy he leaves behind for Kenya's democratic journey.