Kenyan media personality and content creator Azziad Nasenya has shared a deeply emotional reflection following the death of Raila Odinga, admitting that, for a fleeting moment, she hoped the late opposition leader might come back to life.
In a heartfelt video circulating online, Azziad described the overwhelming emotions she experienced upon hearing the devastating news. “I know it’s not possible, but for a moment, I thought what if he actually resurrected? We’ve heard stories of people dying and coming back,” she said, capturing the disbelief and sorrow felt by many Kenyans.
Faith, Grief, and a Prophecy Remembered
Azziad explained that her thought was sparked by a prophecy she once heard, suggesting that Raila Odinga would rise again after his death. “It just flashed in my mind,” she shared, acknowledging that grief often drives people to hold on to glimmers of hope. Her vulnerability resonated with viewers, many of whom are still struggling to come to terms with Raila’s passing.
Nation in Mourning
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s long-time opposition leader and former Prime Minister, passed away on 15 October 2025 in India, where he was receiving medical treatment. Reports indicate he suffered a cardiac arrest while on a morning walk in Kerala. At 80 years old, his death marked the end of a political era spanning over four decades, during which he became a symbol of democracy, justice, and unity.
Following the announcement, President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning, calling Raila “a once-in-a-generation leader and a giant of democracy.” Former President Uhuru Kenyatta described him as “a father to the nation,” while leaders across Africa and the world — including Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi — paid tribute to his global influence.
A Personal Reflection Amid National Grief
Azziad’s emotional reflection adds a deeply human dimension to Kenya’s collective mourning. Her words mirror the emotional turbulence felt by millions, reflecting not only the depth of national loss but also the personal connection many shared with Raila’s vision and values.
By expressing her fleeting hope for Raila’s resurrection, Azziad highlighted the profound emotional impact of his passing — a mix of disbelief, faith, and longing that defines moments of great loss. Her reflection serves as a reminder that beyond politics, Raila Odinga’s life and legacy touched the hearts of everyday Kenyans, inspiring resilience and hope for generations to come.