In what would have been the 81st birthday of the late Raila Odinga, Kenyans paid heartfelt tributes commemorating the unmatched legacy left behind by the ODM chief.
During the birthday commemorations that were held at multiple locations across Kenya on 7th, January 2025, national tributes poured in through social media posts and statements.
Through a statement posted on X on the same day, President William Ruto led the national tribute by describing the late ODM leader as a patriot whose life was defined by undying love for Kenya.
“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 stated.
The Head of State further said that the late former Prime Minister prioritised the country over personal interests in the pursuit of unity and peace.
Ruto went on to say that as Kenyans remembered Raila on his birthday, they celebrated not just the man but the enduring lessons he left the nation.
“Baba taught us time and again that the country must always come before self, that no ambition is greater than our unity, and that no victory is more important than our peace,” Ruto went on.
While speaking in a family private gathering at Karen, Nairobi, Ida Odinga addressed attendees by sharing messages of unity and gratitude.
Besides thanking President Ruto for standing by the family. Especially facilitating a dignified state funeral for the late ODM leader, Raila’s wife Ida Odinga also expressed emotions in remembrance of her departed husband.
Meanwhile, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho also organised a separate yet concurrent commemoration event in Mombasa, themed ‘The Coastal Salute’, to honour Odinga’s legacy.
Raila Odinga’s Enduring Legacy
Born on 7th January 1945, Raila left behind a legacy of pushing for multiparty democracy, something that forced him to endure arrest, and even exile under the authoritarian regimes that were in power then.
Often described as the Enigma of Kenyan politics, Raila manoeuvred Kenyan politics like a true champion of democracy, serving as the country’s prime minister from 2008 to 2013; even though his five attempts to run for the presidency were unsuccessful.
Raila, also known to his followers as ‘Baba’ passed away while receiving medical treatment in India in October 2025. According to political pundits, Raila’s absence is already intensifying debates over opposition leadership as the country gears towards the upcoming 2027 elections.
