The family of the late statesman Raila Amolo Odinga marked what would have been his 81st birthday with an emotional tribute, using the occasion to thank Kenyans, the government and world leaders for the support they received following his death, funeral and burial.
In a full-page message shared by Raila Junior, the Odinga family said the birthday provided a moment to reflect on Raila’s life and legacy while acknowledging the unity and compassion shown to them during what they described as a “profoundly painful time”.
“The Odinga Family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood with us during this profoundly painful time following the passing of our beloved Baba Raila Amolo Odinga,” the family said.
**In Loving Memory of Rt Hon Raila Amolo Odinga CGH**
— Raila Odinga Junior (@Railajunior) January 7, 2026
**A Message from the Odinga Family**
The Odinga Family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood with us during this profoundly painful time following the passing of our beloved Baba Raila Amolo… pic.twitter.com/02VOeodVeH
In the message, the family singled out President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and the entire government for ensuring what they termed a dignified send-off.
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“As we remember him on his birthday, we would like to acknowledge the profound support of the President of Kenya, H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, Deputy President, H.E. Kithure Kindiki, PCS, H.E. Musalia Mudavadi and the entire government of Kenya for their outstanding support and kindness,” the family said.
They also thanked the various funeral committees that coordinated the extensive burial arrangements.
Special appreciation was extended to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for facilitating Raila’s swift repatriation from India.
The family further acknowledged the presence and condolences of former president Uhuru Kenyatta, Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo, Ghana’s Nana Akufo-Addo, Tanzania’s Jakaya Kikwete and African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina.
The family extended gratitude to politicians, world leaders, friends, media houses and ordinary Kenyans whose messages of condolence brought them comfort during the mourning period.
“We cherish all the messages of support, love and kindness. It brings us peace to know how deeply Baba touched the lives of many,” the statement read.
They also paid tribute to Raila’s medical team in both India and Kenya, as well as the ODM party fraternity and staff who stood by him throughout his political life and during his final days.
The birthday remembrance, the family said, reaffirmed their commitment to honouring Raila’s legacy of justice, reform and national unity.
Raila, who was born on January 7, 1945, died on October 15, 2025, after suffering cardiac arrest while in India.
His death triggered nationwide mourning, culminating in a state funeral and his burial beside his father, Kenya’s founding vice president Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.