In a stunning and emotional outburst that has sent shockwaves across the nation, Siaya Governor James Orengo has declared the death of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga a lingering mystery, hinting at unresolved questions and silent culprits who bear responsibility.
Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Orengo – a longtime ally and confidant of the late former Prime Minister – did not mince words. “I also want to say without fear or contradiction that the death of Raila Amollo Odinga… which is still a mystery to a lot of us… those who bear responsibility for the death of Raila are out there, and they are silent about it,” he stated boldly, according to reports from Citizen TV, NTV Kenya, and The Star.
“I hope that one day, we will determine the circumstances in which Raila Odinga passed away,” Orengo added, framing his remarks amid broader criticisms of President William Ruto’s alleged influence over the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following Raila’s demise.
Raila Odinga, the iconic “Baba” of Kenyan opposition politics, passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while, allegedly receiving treatment at Devamatha Hospital in Kochi, India. Official reports cited cardiac arrest during a morning walk, compounded by pre-existing conditions including diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and deep vein thrombosis. His death triggered nationwide mourning and a state funeral, marking the end of an era for multi-party democracy in Kenya.
Yet Orengo’s fresh comments have reignited speculation and conspiracy theories among supporters who refuse to accept the official narrative of natural causes. Social media erupted with reactions, from calls for investigations to accusations of political opportunism, especially as Orengo spoke while defending ODM against perceived takeovers.
The governor’s statement comes at a tense moment for the opposition party, with internal rifts and leadership battles intensifying. Orengo urged ODM members to resist external interference, linking Raila’s legacy to the fight for party autonomy.
As Kenyans grapple with these explosive claims, questions swirl: Was there more to Raila’s passing than reported? Orengo’s demand for truth could spark renewed scrutiny into one of the most consequential deaths in modern Kenyan history.
For now, the mystery endures – and Orengo insists the silence won’t last forever.
