Raila Amolo Odinga was a pivotal and divisive political figure in post-independence Kenya, serving as a veteran opposition leader, former Prime Minister, and frequent presidential candidate.
His career spanned over four decades, significantly influencing Kenya's politics. Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kenya Colony, Raila is the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, a prominent independence figure and Kenya's first vice-president.
His lineage placed him at the center of Kenyan politics from a young age.
Raila's background and political trajectory are marked by his family's involvement in Kenyan politics and his own perseverance as an opposition leader.
Author's summary: Raila Odinga shaped Kenya's democracy.