Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former prime minister and one of Africa’s most influential political figures, has died at 80 after suffering a heart attack in India.

He was pronounced dead on Wednesday at Devamatha Hospital in Kerala State after collapsing during a morning walk. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as “a towering statesman,” while Kenyan President William Ruto called his death “a monumental loss to Kenya and the continent.”

Odinga’s political career spanned more than four decades. Though he ran for president five times in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022, he never attained the presidency but remained a powerful voice for democracy and reform. His closest bid came in 2007 when a disputed election against Mwai Kibaki led to post-election violence and a power-sharing deal that made Odinga prime minister.

Born on January 7, 1945, in Kisumu, Odinga was the son of Kenya’s first vice president, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Trained as an engineer in East Germany, he became active in politics during President Daniel arap Moi’s rule and spent nearly a decade in detention over alleged links to a failed 1982 coup, charges he always denied.

Odinga was central to Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy in the 1990s and helped shape the 2010 Constitution that devolved power to local governments. Known affectionately as “Baba,” meaning father in Swahili, he inspired millions through his populist style and defiant energy.

Despite years in opposition, Odinga often bridged divides. His 2018 reconciliation with then-President Uhuru Kenyatta, known as “the handshake,” eased political tensions. More recently, he forged an alliance with President Ruto, keeping his party active in governance.

Odinga’s life embodied Kenya’s democratic journey, marked by resilience, sacrifice, and hope. He is survived by his wife, Ida Odinga, and their children.