5 Kenyan Politicians Whose Deaths Shook the Nation

Over the years, Kenya has lost some of its powerful and influential politicians whose impact shaped the country’s political landscape. The death of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025, reminded many of other leaders who passed on, leaving the nation in grief.

In this segment, Times Digital Kenya lists some of the politicians whose deaths shook the nation and will always be remembered in history books.

Raila Odinga (1945 – 2025)

The former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, who served as the longest opposition leader in Kenya’s history, was the son of the first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Raila was a champion of democracy and multiparty politics during the regime of President Daniel arap Moi. In addition to his fight for freedom and democracy, Odinga was a key figure in the drafting of the 2010 Constitution, which continues to serve Kenya to date.

Having vied for the presidential seat five times, Raila Odinga was unsuccessful in his quest for the top position. However, his defeats were very narrow during the 2007, 2013, and 2022 general elections, which he claimed were rigged in favor of his opponents. His charisma and ability to connect with the majority of Kenyans made him a prominent political figure in the country for over 30 years.

Sadly, Raila Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025. According to reports, the late ODM leader died of cardiac arrest. His death shook the nation, leading to nationwide mourning that cut across the political divide. For instance, President William Ruto, once his political rival, announced seven days of national mourning, and flags were flown at half-mast in honor of Mr. Odinga.

Kenyans across the country and people from around the world, including former United States President Barack Obama, celebrated Raila Odinga, describing him as a freedom fighter, reformist, and symbol of hope for democracy in Africa.
His funeral drew massive crowds in Bondo with the government according him a state funeral. A host of political leaders, including President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, were in attendance.

Kijana Wamalwa (1944–2003)

Kijana Wamalwa, who served as Kenya’s 8th Vice President, was well known for his eloquence and charisma. He served under President Mwai Kibaki.

Wamalwa served as Vice President for only a few months before he died in August 2003. According to Al Jazeera, Kijana Wamalwa succumbed to kidney failure. He was still in office, and his death sent shockwaves across the country. Kenyans mourned the passing of a seating Vice President who was yet to accomplish his mission.

Kijana Wamalwa was remembered for his humility and his vision for a united Kenya. A large number of Kenyans, including top politicians, attended his burial ceremony.

George Saitoti (1945–2012)

Professor George Saitoti was one of Kenya’s longest-serving Vice Presidents, having served under the second President, Daniel arap Moi. After falling out with Moi’s camp, Saitoti was later appointed Minister of Education and Minister of Internal Security under President Mwai Kibaki.

Saitoti died in a helicopter crash in June 2012 while serving as the Cabinet Secretary for Interior. He perished alongside his assistant, Orwa Ojode. His death shocked the nation, leading to many speculations to date. He was accorded a state funeral by the government of Mwai Kibaki.

Mutula Kilonzo (1948–2013)

Senior Counsel, Mutula Kilonzo was one of the prominent politicians from Ukambani region. He served as Minister of Education in the Mwai Kibaki government before being elected as Makueni senator in 2013.

Unfortunately, Mutula didn’t live long to serve his senatorial term, as he died in April 2013. He was found dead at his Maanzoni home. According to a report by The Standard, the late Makueni senator died from massive hemorrhage (bleeding) into the chest and cranial cavity, caused by significantly elevated blood pressure due to several factors, including but not limited to excess ingestion of pseudoephedrine with caffeine.

His untimely death shocked the entire nation, leaving Kenyans in disbelief. Several key political figures attended his funeral in Makueni County.

Otieno Kajwang (1959–2014)

Gerald Otieno Kajwang, a loyal ODM member, was the first elected Senator of Homa Bay County. Kajwang was known for his humor, patriotism, and fiery speeches, with his slogan “Bado Mapambano” standing out.

The vocal ODM senator died at the age of 55 in November 2014 at the Mater Misericordiae Hospital in Nairobi. Kajwang’s unexpected death stirred shock and disbelief not only among ODM members but also across the political divide. His funeral attracted huge crowds in Homa Bay and was attended by several political bigwigs.

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