- Raila Odinga Junior has written an emotional message on what would have been the birthday of his late father, Raila Odinga
- In the message, he thanked Kenyans and world leaders for standing with Odinga’s family after Raila’s death, saying the support was very important in a difficult period.
- Junior specifically mentioned President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and the government for their role in organizing Raila’s official funeral
Raila Odinga Junior shared an emotional message on behalf of the Odinga family as they remembered the late Raila Odinga’s birthday.
Source: UGC
In a long statement published on social media on Tuesday, January 7, 2026, Junior thanked the Kenyan family and the world leaders who were with them after Raila’s death, saying the support helped them endure a painful period.
A message from Odinga’s family about Raila’s birthday after his death
The family recognized in a special way the role played by President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Minister Kambi Stay Mudavadi and the Kenyan government in planning Raila’s official funeral.
“The Odinga family wants to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who stood with us in this painful period after the death of our beloved Father Raila Amolo Odinga. Today, January 7, 2026, as we remember him on his birthday, we recognize the great support of President William Samoei Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi and the entire government of Kenya,” Junior wrote.
He also thanked the various funeral committees that ensured Raila received a dignified burial.
Source: AFP
Junior extended the family’s gratitude to international leaders, specifically mentioning Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for helping to facilitate Raila’s speedy return to Kenya.
The Odinga family also appreciated the past heroes of the country, including the President Uhuru KenyattaOlusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria, Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana and Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania, as well as the President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina, for traveling from far away to bury him with respect.
“Our sincere thanks are also given to all the governors and county assemblies in Kenya for facilitating the burial in a good order, especially Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o and Siaya Governor James Orengo,” Junior added.
He also thanked the leaders of parliament, including the Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula and the Speaker of the Senate Amason Kingi, as well as the Chief of Defense Forces, General Charles Muriu Kahariri, for their coordination during the funeral preparations.
As the new leader of the Odinga family, Junior paid tribute to the ODM party and workers who were with Raila in his political life and continued to stick together after his death.
Special thanks were also given to the medical teams who cared for Raila in Kenya and India, including specialists at Devamatha Hospital in Kerala and Nairobi Hospital.
“Your compassionate care for Dad and dedication to his welfare will always be remembered,” he said.
How will Raila’s posthumous birthday be celebrated?
Recently, CS of Minerals and Blue Economy Hassan Joho announced a posthumous birthday celebration for the late Raila, who would have been 81 years old.
The Hassan Joho Foundation will host this event to honor Raila’s vision and legacy that continues even after death.
The former governor of Mombasa explained that Raila’s journey is a testimony of patience and leadership that continues to inspire future generations.
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Source: TUKO.co.ke
