Raila Odinga was a key figure in opposition politics for more than four decades, running for president five times without success

Kenya has declared a period of national mourning following the death of veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. According to officials, he died Wednesday morning in India while undergoing medical treatment.

In astatementon Wednesday, Kenyan President William Ruto described the death of his longtime rival as an "immeasurable loss," and ordered that flags be flown at half-mast until the day of his burial.

"Odinga was the very embodiment of patriotism and selfless servant-leadership... whose legacy will illuminate Kenya's democratic path for all time," Ruto stated.

The East African country's authorities have not released a cause of death, but reports indicate that Odinga suffered cardiac arrest during a morning walk.

On Thursday, thousands turned out toreceivethe body of the politician popularly known as 'Baba', meaning father. Footage shared on social media showslargecrowds of supporters carrying tree branches at the main airport in the capital, Nairobi, reportedly prompting a temporary suspension of operations.

The state-owned broadcaster KBC reported that a public viewing of the body has been moved to Nairobi's largest stadium, Kasarani, after crowds overwhelmed parliament, where the viewing had been scheduled before burial in his home county of Bondo.

Odinga was a central figure in Kenya's opposition politics for more than four decades, running for president five times - 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022 - but never securing victory. In 2007, his defeat triggered nationwide unrest that reportedly killed over 1,000 people, leading to a power-sharing deal mediated by the UN and African Union. The National Accord created the post of prime minister, which Odinga held from 2008 to 2013, before the office was abolished under the 2010 constitution.

In 2022, William Ruto, then deputy president, defeated Odinga, winning 50.5% to 48.8%. Odinga alleged irregularities and petitioned the Supreme Court, which upheld Ruto's victory. He ledprotestsagainst the government, including over tax hikes and the rising cost of living.

His party, the Orange Democratic Movement, hasappointedSiaya County senator Oburu Oginga as acting leader, calling Odinga's death "untimely."

(RT.com)