Siaya Governor James Orengo has described the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as a devastating and unexpected blow to him, his family, and the nation.
Speaking in an interview on NTV Monday night, Orengo said he was stunned because Raila had not shown any signs of being seriously unwell before his sudden collapse in India.
“It came as a great shock because he had not shown any signs of being seriously unwell,” Orengo said, recalling the moment he received news of Odinga’s death on 15 October 2025.
Odinga, aged 80, suffered a cardiac arrest while on a morning walk during medical treatment in Kerala, India, and was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Orengo, a longtime political ally and friend, reflected on Raila’s towering role in Kenya’s politics.
“Raila dedicated his life to the people, to justice, and to democracy. Losing him so suddenly is a loss that cannot be measured,” he said.
The Siaya governor also commented on the public reaction to the late ODM leader’s death, noting the immense grief across Kenya.
Flags were lowered, and President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning, culminating in a state funeral and burial in Bondo, Siaya County.
Orengo urged Kenyans to continue honoring Raila’s legacy, saying, “Let us uphold the values he fought for—fairness, democracy, and social justice. That is how we can truly remember him.”
For Orengo, Raila’s death is not just a political loss but a personal one, leaving a void in the hearts of Kenyans who had long admired the former Prime Minister.