Kenya Buries Raila Odinga Amid Deep Political Uncertainty

Raila Odinga, Kenya's former Prime Minister and a significant figure in the country's democratic evolution, has died and was buried with full military honors at his rural home. Recognized as an outstanding African nationalist by Zimbabwe's President Mnangagwa, Odinga played a crucial role in shaping modern independent Africa and was a symbol of resistance, having endured detention and exile during his fight against authoritarianism. His activism was instrumental in key political reforms, including the legalization of multiparty politics and the 2010 constitution, yet his legacy is complex, blending radical resistance with political pragmatism. Odinga's death has left a political vacuum in Kenya, raising questions about the future leadership and unity of his ODM party amid ongoing political uncertainty. His recent political pact with President William Ruto was credited with stabilizing the country after protests, though some youth viewed his cooperation with the government as a betrayal. Thousands mourned Odinga as a selfless pan-Africanist who, despite never winning the presidency, profoundly influenced Kenya's political landscape over four decades.