What the World Can Learn from the Life of Raila Odinga

By Nagesh Bhushan Chuppala  

Photo REUTERS

The passing of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga on 16 October 2025 sparked a week‑long period of national mourning, massive public gatherings, and intense reflection on his three‑decade political career. Beyond the headlines of state funerals and tragic crowd incidents, Odinga’s life offers a trove of lessons for leaders, activists, and ordinary citizens alike. By examining his persistence, coalition‑building, institutional reforms, communication style, diplomatic navigation, respect for democratic norms, personal resilience, and mentorship, we can distill practical guidance for anyone seeking lasting impact in a turbulent world.

1. Persistence Over Victory

Odinga contested Kenya’s presidency six times—1997, 2002, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022—yet never secured the office. Rather than retreat after each loss, he kept returning to the political arena, refining his platform and expanding his support base. His story reminds us that lasting influence often stems from relentless effort, not a single triumph. Whether building a startup, campaigning for policy change, or mastering a craft, embracing setbacks as stepping stones fuels long‑term success.

2. Coalition‑Building Across Divides

The 2007 post‑election crisis forced Odinga to negotiate a power‑sharing agreement that birthed Kenya’s first coalition government, with him serving as Prime Minister. This pragmatic partnership preserved national stability and demonstrated that bridging ideological gaps can safeguard institutions when polarization threatens the social fabric. Modern movements can emulate this by seeking allies beyond their immediate circles, turning adversaries into collaborators for incremental progress.

3. Championing Institutional Reform

Odinga’s relentless push for electoral reforms, a new constitution, and devolution helped shape Kenya’s 2010 Constitution—introducing county governments and stronger checks and balances. His work underscores that structural change, not merely charismatic leadership, cements democratic gains. Investing time in legal frameworks, civic education, and transparent processes yields benefits that outlive any individual’s tenure.

4. Balancing Populist Energy With Policy Substance

Rally crowds swelled to the rhythm of music and slogans such as “Harambee,” yet Odinga also engaged in detailed policy debates on land reform, economic diversification, and anti‑corruption measures. This blend illustrates that emotional resonance and concrete proposals can coexist. Effective communicators inspire while delivering actionable plans, preserving credibility and fostering public trust.

5. Navigating International Relations Strategically

Odinga cultivated ties with regional bodies (AU, IGAD) and foreign governments, positioning himself as a pan‑African voice while occasionally critiquing Western policies. His approach teaches that strategic diplomacy requires both engagement and independence. Leaders can leverage global partnerships without sacrificing domestic priorities, ensuring that external support amplifies rather than dictates local agendas.

6. Respect for Democratic Norms Even When Disadvantaged

Despite believing some elections were rigged, Odinga consistently called for peaceful transitions and respected constitutional outcomes—most notably after the 2017 repeat election. This adherence to democratic norms highlights a core principle: the health of the system outweighs personal ambition. Upholding the rule of law reduces the risk of violent backsliding and strengthens public confidence in governance.

7. Personal Resilience and Adaptability

Exile, arrests, health scares, and fluctuating political fortunes marked Odinga’s journey, yet he repeatedly re‑entered public life, shifting tactics from street activism to parliamentary negotiation and diplomatic outreach. His adaptability demonstrates that flexibility in strategy is essential when circumstances evolve. Rigid adherence to a single method can limit effectiveness; responsive leaders adjust their playbook as realities change.

8. Legacy Through Mentorship and Succession Planning

Odinga deliberately nurtured the next generation—his son Oburu and younger activists now hold political roles—ensuring his vision could endure beyond his own tenure. This intentional mentorship underscores that succession planning safeguards continuity. Movements that invest in future leaders create a pipeline of talent capable of carrying forward core values and objectives.

A Message for the Youth of the World

Dear Young Changemakers,

Raila Odinga’s story is not just a chapter in Kenyan history; it is a living handbook for anyone who dares to imagine a better tomorrow. You inherit a world that is more connected, more volatile, and more urgent than ever before. Here are a few guiding thoughts drawn from his life:

1. Dream Boldly, Act Relentlessly – Your ideas can reshape societies, but they require daily discipline. Treat every setback as a rehearsal for the next act.
2. Seek Unity Without Diluting Purpose – Build bridges across cultures, religions, and political lines. Collaboration multiplies impact, even when you disagree on the details.
3. Demand Strong Institutions – Fight for transparent voting systems, accountable courts, and free media. The strength of a nation lies in its rules, not just its leaders.
4. Speak with Heart and Head – Harness the energy of music, art, and social media to rally hearts, then back it up with clear, evidence‑based solutions.
5. Own Your Narrative Globally – Engage with international peers, but let your community’s needs dictate the agenda. Global solidarity works best when rooted in local authenticity.
6. Stand Up for Democracy, Even When It Hurts – Defend peaceful transitions and the rule of law, even when the outcome isn’t yours. The credibility you earn today protects tomorrow’s freedoms.
7. Adapt Quickly, Stay Resilient – The world will throw curveballs—climate crises, pandemics, geopolitical shifts. Keep learning, stay flexible, and never let fear freeze you.
8. Mentor the Next Generation – Today’s leaders become tomorrow’s mentors. Share knowledge, create spaces for youth voices, and watch the ripple effect multiply.

Your generation holds the keys to climate action, digital ethics, social equity, and countless other frontiers. Let Odinga’s perseverance remind you that lasting change is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep moving forward, together.

Translating These Lessons Into Action

Lesson	Practical Steps
Persistence	Set long‑term goals that extend beyond any single campaign or project. Celebrate small wins while staying focused on the larger vision.
Coalition‑Building	Identify overlapping interests with groups outside your immediate base. Initiate dialogue early, emphasizing shared outcomes over ideological purity.
Institutional Reform	Advocate for transparent procedures, robust checks and balances, and inclusive governance structures. Engage legal experts and civil society to draft reforms.
Communication Balance	Pair emotive storytelling with clear, data‑driven policy proposals. Use relatable symbols while grounding them in concrete actions.
Strategic Diplomacy	Build relationships with international partners, but retain decision‑making autonomy. Align external support with domestic priorities.
Democratic Norms	Publicly endorse peaceful transitions, even after contested outcomes. Model respect for institutions to inspire similar behavior among followers.
Resilience & Adaptability	Conduct regular strategic reviews. Be ready to pivot tactics when new information or circumstances arise.
Mentorship	Establish formal mentorship programs. Empower emerging leaders with responsibilities and resources.

Raila Odinga’s life was a study in the complexities of modern leadership: a blend of unyielding determination, collaborative pragmatism, and deep reverence for democratic institutions. As Kenya mourns a figure it calls “once‑in‑a‑generation,” the world can draw from his legacy a roadmap for navigating political turbulence, driving systemic change, and nurturing the next wave of leaders. By internalizing these lessons—and by heeding the call to the youth to dream boldly, unite wisely, and act responsibly—we can ensure that the pursuit of a more just and resilient society continues long after any single leader departs