The recent passing of veteran Kenyan politician Raila Odinga, who died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Kerala, India, at the age of 80, has brought into sharp focus his profound and enduring impact on Western Kenya's political landscape. For more than two decades, Odinga's presence was a defining factor in the region's alliances, leadership, and reform agenda, leaving an indelible mark that will continue to shape its political trajectory.

Odinga's connection with Western Kenya was deeply cultivated, extending beyond mere political courtship. He famously claimed lineage from the Wanga Kingdom, referring to himself as a grandchild of King Nabongo Mumia. This symbolic gesture fostered a strong bond with the Luhya community, earning him the title of an "adopted Luhya" and strengthening the "Mashemeji bond" between his Luo community and the Luhya people. His ability to switch between Kiswahili, English, and Luhya dialects at rallies, share local proverbs, and participate in traditional dances further cemented his cultural integration into the region.

Historical and Political Context

Raila Odinga's relationship with Western Kenya dates back to the early 1990s, during Kenya's struggle for multi-party democracy. His alliances with prominent Western reformist leaders such as Masinde Muliro and Michael Wamalwa Kijana laid a crucial foundation for a political friendship that spanned decades. Following the death of Kijana Wamalwa in 2003, a political vacuum emerged in the region, which Odinga, alongside local leaders like Musalia Mudavadi, steadily filled, expanding his influence.

According to Fred Omido, a long-time ally and former Bahati MP, Odinga's impact in Western Kenya was built on three pillars: coalition building, policy influence, and symbolic leadership. In 2002, Odinga played a pivotal role in the formation of the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC), which successfully ended the long reign of the Kenya African National Union (KANU). Western Kenya's overwhelming support for NARC, largely driven by trust in Odinga's leadership and his alliance with Wamalwa Kijana, marked a significant political shift.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

Odinga's influence extended to policy, particularly his persistent advocacy for devolution and equitable resource distribution. These efforts resonated with the region's aspirations for self-governance and development. The establishment of county governments and improved infrastructure are considered part of his enduring legacy in Western Kenya. His role in the passage of Kenya's progressive 2010 Constitution, which devolved power and established a bill of rights, is also a landmark achievement.

During the Grand Coalition Government (2008–2013), where Odinga served as Prime Minister, Western Kenyan leaders were appointed to key positions, including Musalia Mudavadi as Deputy Prime Minister, Kenneth Marende as National Assembly Speaker, and Wycliffe Oparanya as Minister for Planning and later Governor of Kakamega.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

King Peter Nabongo II eulogized Odinga as "a true son of the soil who always had the interests of the Luhya community at heart," highlighting the deep admiration Odinga garnered. Omido further noted that Odinga's regular visits, support for local leaders, and inclusion of Western politicians in national conversations earned him immense respect, transforming his image from merely a Luo leader to a Kenyan reformist who understood their struggles.

Evidence and Data

• Political Influence Span: Raila Odinga's political influence in Western Kenya spanned over two decades, from the early 1990s until his passing in 2025.
• 2013 Presidential Election: In the 2013 presidential election, Odinga garnered 62.22% of the vote in Western Province, significantly outpolling Musalia Mudavadi, who received 29.14%.
• 2022 Presidential Election: In the 2022 general election, Odinga, as the Azimio la Umoja–One Kenya Coalition Party candidate, received 48.85% of the national vote against William Ruto's 50.49%.
• Parliamentary Representation: As of October 2025, Odinga's Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) held 86 seats in Kenya's National Assembly, representing 25% of the 349-member parliament.

Risks and Implications

Odinga's death creates a significant political vacuum in Western Kenya, ending what has been a predictable voting pattern in the region for decades. Without a clearly groomed successor from within his family or political proteges, the future direction of the "Raila vote bloc" in Western Kenya remains uncertain. This situation presents both challenges and opportunities for the region's political future, as other leaders will undoubtedly maneuver to gain the support of his millions of followers.

Unknowns and Controversies

While Odinga's claim of lineage to the Wanga Kingdom was largely symbolic, it was sometimes dismissed by critics as political theatrics. However, supporters viewed it as a powerful gesture of unity and recognition of intertwined political destinies across ethnic lines. The long-term impact of his absence on the cohesive nature of Western Kenya's voting bloc is an unanswered question.

Timeline and Next Steps

Raila Odinga's political journey in Western Kenya began in the early 1990s with the struggle for multi-party democracy. His influence solidified through alliances, policy advocacy, and symbolic leadership, culminating in his role as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. His passing on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, marks a pivotal moment, ushering in a new phase for Western Kenya's political landscape.

What to Watch

The immediate future will likely see various political figures attempting to consolidate support in Western Kenya. Observers will be watching for emerging leaders who can articulate a vision that resonates with the region's aspirations, potentially reshaping alliances and voting patterns in upcoming elections. The strategies employed by the current government to engage with the region in Odinga's absence will also be crucial.