India's first diplomatic note that informed Kenya of Raila’s death
The document seen exclusively by The Eastleigh Voice stated that he had been undergoing Ayurveda wellness treatment at Sreedhareeyam Hospital, Kerala, since October 10, accompanied by his personal doctor, Dr David Livingstone Oluoch from Kenya.
The Government of India formally notified Kenya of the death of ex-Prime Minister Raila Odinga through a diplomatic note delivered to the Kenya High Commission in New Delhi, marking the first official communication between the two states following the veteran leader's passing in Kochi.
According to the note, dated October 15, 2025, and issued by India's Ministry of External Affairs (CPV Division), Raila Odinga collapsed while walking with his personal security team and was immediately taken to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he passed away at 9:52 am local time.
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"The Ministry of External Affairs (CPV Division), Government of India presents its compliments to the Kenya High Commission in New Delhi and regrets to inform the death of H.E Raila Amollo Odinga," the note dispatched to the mission led by Peter Munyiri read.
The document seen exclusively by The Eastleigh Voice stated that he had been undergoing Ayurveda wellness treatment at Sreedhareeyam Hospital, Kerala, since October 10, accompanied by his personal doctor, Dr David Livingstone Oluoch from Kenya.
The Ministry in New Delhi expressed its condolences to the Government of Kenya, conveying "the assurances of its highest consideration", diplomatic language reserved for communications of deep respect and gravity.
The High Commissioner, Amb Peter Munyiri, was among the first government officials to arrive in Kerala, which is about a 3.5-hour flight from New Delhi.
The note's delivery, although normally highlighting India's close historical and personal ties with Raila Odinga, who had long described India as his "second home."
He had made several medical and private visits to the country over the years, developing a personal rapport with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was also the first foreign leader to publicly announce Raila's death and pay tribute, calling him "a towering statesman and a true friend of India."
Raila's passing in India carries symbolic weight, reflecting the decades-long connection between Kenya and India — bound by shared Commonwealth ties, trade relations, and mutual cultural affinity.
His final moments in the country he admired mark a poignant close to one of Africa's most enduring political careers.
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