Kenya was thrown into confusion and shock on Wednesday morning after reports emerged from Indian media claiming that ODM leader Raila Odinga had passed away while on a trip to India. According to the reports, Odinga allegedly suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk.
As of now, both the Kenyan government and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are yet to release an official statement confirming or denying the reports. However, a series of cryptic social media posts from key ODM politicians have fueled speculation and anxiety among supporters.
ODM’s Director of Communications, Philip Etale, took to X (formerly Twitter) and simply wrote, “I am deflated,” leaving followers guessing about the situation.
Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina added to the tension with his brief post: “Eeehhh Taaa! What a day.”
Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, posted a plain black portrait a gesture widely associated with mourning. Kileleshwa MP Robert Alai shared a photo of Raila Odinga, captioning it only with the word “Baba”, the nickname affectionately used by Odinga’s supporters.
Even Miguna Miguna, the exiled lawyer and former Raila ally known for their public fallout, extended condolences. In a post on X, Miguna wrote: “Yes, I have just heard the sad news. Our condolences to the family of Raila Odinga. Rest in peace, Jakom.”
Despite the widespread online reaction, officials close to the Odinga family have remained silent, further heightening the uncertainty surrounding the reports.
As Kenyans await an official statement, social media continues to buzz with messages of concern, prayers, and disbelief, reflecting the deep emotional connection the nation has with the veteran opposition leader.
