By our reporter

Raila Odinga, a veteran Kenyan politician and former Prime Minister, has passed away after suffering a heart attack in India. He was 80. Odinga’s death was confirmed by Devamatha Hospital in Kerala State, where he was pronounced dead after failing to respond to resuscitation efforts.

A key figure in Kenyan politics, Odinga was a five-time presidential candidate and a champion of democracy. He played a crucial role in shaping Kenya’s multiparty democracy and was a respected statesman.

President William Ruto declared a seven-day mourning period, and national flags will fly at half-staff. Odinga will receive a state funeral.

Odinga’s legacy is marked by his fight for democracy and his influence on Kenyan politics. He had recently signed a political pact with Ruto, which saw his opposition party involved in government policy-making.