Nairobi, Kenya ; A wave of emotion has swept through Kenya following the death of the Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, the country’s former Prime Minister and one of Africa’s most influential political figures. Thousands of young people have poured into the streets of Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), staging peaceful demonstrations, waving flags, and chanting songs of unity and resistance in honor of the man they call “The People’s President.”

The atmosphere in the capital is charged with both grief and defiance. Many young Kenyans say their presence in the streets is not just about mourning  it’s about protecting Raila Odinga’s legacy. Protesters have lit candles, displayed placards with his image, and set up makeshift memorials at key landmarks including Uhuru Park, Kenyatta Avenue, and Parliament Road.

 “Raila Odinga stood for justice, equality, and the voice of the people. We are here to make sure that what he fought for doesn’t die with him,” said one youth leader during the march.

Raila Odinga widely known as the Father of Devolution dedicated his political career to championing democracy, constitutionalism, and social justice. He was a fearless opposition leader, a statesman who believed in dialogue, and a unifying figure whose influence stretched far beyond Kenya’s borders.

Political leaders, civil society groups, and global figures have joined Kenyans in mourning, calling his death “a loss not just for Kenya, but for the entire African continent.” Vigils are also being organized in Kisumu, Mombasa, and major cities across the region.

Security has been heightened in Nairobi as the crowds continue to grow. However, authorities have praised the demonstrations for remaining largely peaceful and organized.

Trending hashtags including #RIPRailaOdinga, #BabaForever, #RailaTheLegend, and #YouthForChange have dominated X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok as millions of Kenyans and Africans express their sorrow and solidarity online.

 “To eulogize Raila Odinga is to accept that words can never fully capture his impact on our democracy,” said a senior political leader in a moving tribute.

Raila Odinga will be remembered as a visionary leader, a symbol of resistance, and a voice for the voiceless. Nationwide mourning and state funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.

???? Raila Amollo Odinga (1945–2025): A Giant Has Fallen, But His Legacy Lives On.

A section of Nairobi residents staged a peaceful procession in the city’s Central Business District to mourn the late Raila Odinga. Several shops remained closed as business owners expressed fears of possible infiltration by unruly elements.

Youth Take Over Nairobi CBD as Kenya Mourns the Passing of Raila Odinga