Activities on the main podium of the ongoing Kenya Energy Week Symposium in Nairobi have been suspended following news of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
According to government digital strategist Dennis Itumbi, the decision was made to halt the day’s proceedings as the nation comes to terms with the passing of one of Kenya’s most iconic political figures.
“Activities on the main podium at Energy Week have been suspended following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Further directions will be issued after a Cabinet meeting,” Itumbi announced through his verified social media handle on Wednesday morning.
Mr. Odinga, 80, was undergoing treatment in Kochi, India, and is reported by Indian media to have suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk. He was rushed to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where doctors pronounced him dead.
Government sources have indicated that President William Ruto has convened an urgent Cabinet meeting to deliberate on the next steps, including the official announcement of a period of national mourning and the formation of a state funeral committee.
The late Odinga — often referred to as “Baba” by his supporters — was a towering figure in Kenya’s political landscape, having served as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013 under the Grand Coalition Government formed after the post-election violence.
Throughout his decades-long career, Odinga championed multi-party democracy, constitutional reforms, and economic inclusivity, cementing his place as one of Africa’s most influential opposition leaders.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the political divide, major national events — including the Energy Week symposium — are expected to remain on hold pending formal government communication.
