President William Ruto on Wednesday led Kenyans in marking what would have been the 81st birthday of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, hailing him as a patriot whose life and politics were anchored in unity, sacrifice, and national interest.
In a message shared on his official X account, Ruto described Raila as a leader whose long political journey left a lasting imprint on Kenya’s democratic space.
“Today, January 7, we mark what would have been the 81st birthday of the Right Honourable Raila Odinga, a patriot whose life was defined by courage, sacrifice, and an unyielding love for Kenya,” Ruto said.
As the country reflected on his legacy, political leaders across the divide joined in paying tribute.
Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka described Raila as a towering national figure whose contribution to Kenya’s democracy and reform journey will endure.
“We remember. We appreciate. We honour Baba,” Kalonzo said.
Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, a close ally and political protégé of Raila, said events had been organised to honour the late leader’s enduring vision.
“His journey teaches us that resilience is not the absence of struggle, but the courage to walk through it with purpose,” Joho said, noting that Raila’s ideals continue to live on through the leaders he mentored.
Across social media, leaders and supporters, particularly from the ODM fraternity, shared emotional tributes.
Abuga Makori wrote, “Happy birthday. Continue watching over us. Send signals on how to deal with traitors who are being sponsored from Ichaweri.”
Activist Captain Dominic described Raila as, “The voice that refused silence, the light that challenged darkness and the legacy that will inspire generations.”
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino wrote, “You are no longer with us, but still with us in spirit. Today would have been your 81st birthday. Happy birthday, Jakom. Continue resting in peace.”
The Odinga family also marked the day by thanking Kenyans, the government and world leaders for the support extended to them during Raila’s funeral and the period of national mourning.
Meanwhile, the Kisumu County government, through Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, described Raila as a political colossus and Africa’s democratic conscience, saying the country was marking the day not with celebration, but with deep reflection.
Raila, a five-time presidential candidate and former prime minister, died on October 15, 2025, after suffering a cardiac arrest while receiving treatment in India. Following his death, the government accorded him a state funeral and posthumously awarded him the country’s highest civilian honour in recognition of his service to the nation.
Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Raila was the son of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mary Juma Odinga. For over four decades, he remained a central figure in Kenya’s political history, playing a pivotal role in the struggle for multiparty democracy and constitutional reform.
Even in death, Raila’s name continues to shape national conversation.