The sudden death of former prime minister Raila Odinga on Wednesday, October 15, has left Kenyans and the world in shock. Vybz Kartel paid tribute to Raila Odinga in a video shared on TikTok. Raila passed away after suffering a heart attack during his morning walk. Doctors tirelessly tried to resuscitate him using CPR and other methods in the Intensive Care Unit, but their efforts were unsuccessful. How did Vybz Kartel mourn Raila Odinga? Legendary dancehall singer Vybz Kartel has now joined Kenyans in mourning the charismatic politician.
Kartel shared a video on his TikTok page, where he has been active the most since his release from prison in 2024, reenacting one of Raila’s most iconic speeches. “I believe strongly that no matter our disagreements, our visions, and disappointments, we have to put the country first,” he said. He was echoing a speech originally delivered when Raila and President William Ruto, among other leaders, signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in June 2025. This came at the height of widespread protests that had rocked the country and has since emerged as one of his legendary speeches. Adding his own words of condolence, Kartel captioned the video: “Rest in peace Baba Odinga.
The legend Raila Amollo Odinga 🇰🇪” Watch the video below: Netizens react to Vybz Kartel’s tribute to Raila The post sparked a wave of reactions online, with many netizens expressing surprise that Kartel was aware of Raila’s legacy and contributions to the country. Here are some of their comments: Boom And Crash Signals. 8.M.C: “A Kenyan name for Vybz please.” hanan: “Do a free concert for us to mourn Raila’s death.” Kitengela Nails: “You are welcome to perform in disco matanga.” Warren and Whitney W.W: “Rip Baba , Kenya is mourning , God bless Kenya. Big up world boss.” everlyne: “Kartel you also knew Jakom?😩😩God bless Kenya ju uweh tunakapitia.” KENYAN KICHEKO: “We love you kartel,,and when are you coming to kenya. Thank you for joining us in mourning the legend who was Raila Odinga.” Ceekay Nyambura: “Vybz Kartel lakini anatupendanga..kuja tu uishi na sisi hatuwezi kukataa.” Gibson: “Drop a rest In peace riddim for baba now.” Moru Pride: “Our fear less leader forever in our Heart Daddy 💖 our Heroe will Rest well We shall meet 😭Baba.”
By DanVictor Munene
