Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed grief over the demise of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who handed away earlier within the day on the age of 80, in Koothattukulam, Kerala, after struggling a coronary heart assault throughout his morning stroll.
Referred to Odinga as a “cherished good friend of India”, PM Modi recalled their assembly throughout his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat.
Odinga, who was within the state for Ayurvedic therapy, collapsed out of the blue and was rushed to Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Analysis Centre, however couldn’t be revived. His physique has been stored at Deva Matha Hospital, Koothattukulam.
In a publish on X, PM Modi mentioned, “Deeply saddened by the passing of my pricey good friend and former Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr Raila Odinga. He was a towering statesman and a cherished good friend of India. I had the privilege of realizing him carefully since my days as Chief Minister of Gujarat, and our affiliation continued through the years.”
“He had a particular affection for India, our tradition, values and historical knowledge. This was mirrored in his efforts to strengthen India-Kenya ties. He notably admired Ayurveda and the standard medication techniques of India, having witnessed their constructive affect on his daughter’s well being. I lengthen my deepest condolences to his household, associates and to the individuals of Kenya on this hour of grief,” he added.
Odinga had arrived in Koothattukulam six days in the past, accompanied by his daughter and shut members of the family.
He had been following a routine of morning walks and therapy periods on the hospital.
Native authorities mentioned the guts assault occurred round 6.30 a.m. throughout his stroll, and he was delivered to the hospital in important situation.
A towering determine in Kenyan politics for over 4 a long time, Odinga served because the nation’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, throughout an important interval of nationwide reconciliation and constitutional reform.
Identified for his fiery speeches and grassroots connections, he was a central determine in shaping fashionable Kenyan democracy.
He performed a key position within the power-sharing settlement that ended the post-election violence of 2007–08, rising as a nationwide chief who advocated dialogue and reform.
Odinga was additionally a long-time opposition chief and head of the Orange Democratic Motion.
He contested a number of presidential elections and remained one among Kenya’s most outstanding political figures.
His profession was marked by each fierce political battles and efforts to construct a extra inclusive political system.
Officers from the Kenyan Embassy in New Delhi have been knowledgeable and are coordinating with the Kerala authorities and hospital authorities for the repatriation of the physique.
Native leaders and members of the Kenyan diaspora expressed shock and grief at his demise.
A proper assertion from the Kenyan authorities is anticipated quickly.