Questions are growing in Kenya over how the government and key institutions managed Raila Odinga’s health issues and the announcement of his death.
Raila Odinga, 80, died in India after suffering a cardiac arrest while receiving treatment. His passing was confirmed by Kenyan authorities shortly afterward.
Many are questioning the level of transparency surrounding his medical condition before his trip abroad, and whether the public and his supporters were given accurate, timely updates about his health.
Reports indicate that Odinga collapsed during a morning walk at a hospital in Kerala, where he had been seeking treatment for age-related ailments. However, the details made public so far remain limited.
Critics say the slow release of information may have encouraged speculation and uncertainty, eroding public trust in official communication from political leaders and state agencies.
Concerns have also been raised about the timing and tone of the announcement, which came after his death in India and sparked intense media coverage and widespread mourning.
Observers believe that, given Odinga’s stature as a veteran opposition leader and national icon, the announcement could have been handled with more sensitivity to reflect the emotional weight of the moment for his supporters.
Attention has also turned to how Kenyan authorities coordinated with Indian medical officials and diplomatic channels in arranging the repatriation of his body, considering the international nature of the situation.
Funeral of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Photo Courtesy/KBC Digital.
The massive crowds and emotional scenes during his public viewing and state funeral further highlighted the need for clear and early communication to prevent disorder and confusion.
While the government’s declaration of a national mourning period and a state funeral was fitting for Odinga’s legacy, the crowd management challenges suggest that more thorough preparation might have been necessary.
Beyond logistics, Odinga’s death raises a deeper question about political transparency, when a major national figure falls ill or dies, how should the information be shared, and by whom?
Given Odinga’s influence, his health and passing carried far-reaching national significance.
There are calls for clearer protocols on how leaders’ health matters and deaths are communicated.
Ultimately, more open, respectful, and timely communication could help reduce confusion, rumours, and tension in times of national loss.
