The Director of the Executive Office of the President, Cherotich Carren Kiki, has addressed ongoing speculations surrounding the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, urging political leaders and the public to respect documented facts and the grieving family.
Speaking on Facebook, Kiki described Odinga’s passing at age 80 as a “blessing,” noting that his longevity surpassed Kenya’s average life expectancy of 66 to 67 years.
She emphasized that age and illness are realities that no one can escape, and that Odinga had been managing his health for some time, even while actively participating in public life.
“Raila was not just a political competitor or ally to some of you. He was a father, a brother, and a historic figure in Kenya’s political space. His passing should not become material for insinuation, opportunism, or political expediency,” Kiki said.
Her remarks appeared directed at recent political claims by some leaders questioning the circumstances of Odinga’s death.
Kiki stressed that the former Prime Minister had experienced several health incidents in the past, including episodes of collapse during campaign periods, and that medical professionals, including doctors in India where he was receiving treatment, had issued public reports confirming the cause of death.
“The Indian doctors who attended to him gave a public autopsy report on the cause of his death. There are medical reports on the same, and they belong to the family and the professionals,” she stated.
Kiki added that Odinga’s sister had been by his side until his passing, ensuring the family’s account of events was publicly known.
Kiki condemned what she described as the exploitation of Odinga’s death for political purposes, specifically singling out politicians who have questioned official medical findings.
“Kenya deserves maturity from those who seek to lead it. Grief is not a campaign tool and should never be. That kind of retrogressive politics is not for 2025; it is bankruptcy of ideas,” she said.
She further called on leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka and Siaya Governor James Orengo, to respect both the documented medical facts and the family’s grief.
“You can debate policy, we can contest ideology, but we must never exploit mortality,” Kiki said, urging all political actors to prioritize responsible discourse over speculation.
Her statement reveals the ongoing tension in Kenya’s political landscape, where even moments of national grief can quickly become intertwined with partisan debate.
By reiterating the verified medical facts and appealing to ethical conduct, Kiki’s comments aim to draw a line between political discourse and the personal loss experienced by Odinga’s family.