Dr. Alphose, the lead cardiologist at Devamatha Hospital in India, has shared an emotional account of the final moments of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing the sadness and helplessness felt by the entire medical team as they tried to save his life.
Speaking softly and with visible emotion, she recalled the long hours of intense medical efforts that unfortunately ended in heartbreak.
The doctor said that from the moment Raila was brought in, it was clear that his condition was serious and required urgent, specialized attention.
According to her, Raila was transferred to their hospital from another medical facility for advanced cardiovascular care after his health worsened.
When he arrived, doctors immediately took him to the intensive care unit where a full team of cardiologists, nurses, and technicians worked together to stabilize him.
Though weak and visibly tired, Raila was conscious and able to speak in short sentences. Dr. Alphose said she would never forget how calm and gracious he was, even in such a critical state.
He thanked the staff for their dedication and encouraged them not to give up, showing the same spirit that had defined his long public life.
Over the next few hours, the medical team carried out multiple procedures to improve his heart function.
They used advanced monitoring equipment, administered medication, and provided continuous support.
For a brief period, there was hope as his heart responded slightly to the treatment, and his blood pressure seemed to stabilize. But soon after, the improvement faded.
Dr. Alphose explained that his condition suddenly began to deteriorate, with a sharp drop in blood pressure and heart rate that could not be reversed despite every possible intervention.
The cardiologist said the team refused to give up easily. Every member of staff in the unit, from senior specialists to junior nurses, took part in the effort to sustain him. “We fought hard,” she said, “but his body was too weak to recover.”
Dr. Alphose described Raila as a man of great dignity and humility, someone who remained composed and kind even in his most difficult hours.
She noted that he never complained about pain or fear, and instead kept asking how others were doing. His gentle nature, she said, left a lasting impression on everyone who cared for him.
The hospital administration later released a statement expressing its condolences to Raila’s family and the people of Kenya. The statement described his passing as a deep loss not only to Kenya but also to the hospital team that had come to admire his strength and warmth.
“We share in the grief of his family and country. It was a privilege to care for such a respected leader,” the hospital said.During his stay, Raila was surrounded by close family members, including his sister Dr. Wenwa Odinga and Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, who kept watch by his side throughout the treatment. They were with him until the final moments, offering prayers and comfort.
As Dr. Alphose concluded her remarks, her voice grew emotional. She said that although the outcome was painful, she found peace in knowing that they did everything humanly possible to save him. “We fought to the very end,” she said.
“Our hearts are broken, but we are proud to have served him with all our strength. May his soul rest in peace.”Her words have since been widely shared, bringing both tears and comfort to many who continue to mourn Raila Odinga.
Across Kenya and beyond, people have expressed gratitude for the compassion shown by the medical team and for the courage with which the former Prime Minister faced his final moments.
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