Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Photo/Courtesy
The Odinga family has released a message of gratitude as Kenyans and friends across the world mark what would have been the 81st birthday of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
The statement was shared on Tuesday by Raila Odinga Junior on behalf of the family.
In the message dated January 7, 2026, the family thanked President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and the government of Kenya for their support following Baba Raila’s death.
The Odingas extended appreciation to international leaders who stood with them during the mourning period. They singled out Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for facilitating the swift return of Raila Odinga’s body from India.
Former presidents Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya, Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria, Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania, and African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina were also recognised for attending or sending condolences.
Locally, the family thanked county governments and assemblies for their coordination, with special mention of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
The Message Published in one of the local Dailies
They also acknowledged the role played by the National Assembly leadership, including Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, alongside the Kenya Defence Forces leadership.
The message further paid tribute to the medical teams in India and Kenya who attended to Raila Odinga in his final days. Doctors and staff at Devamatha Hospital in Kerala and Nairobi Hospital were praised for their professionalism and compassion.
“It brings us peace to know how deeply Baba touched the lives of many,” the family said, as the country reflects on Raila Odinga’s legacy on his birthday.