Odinga Family Thanks Ruto, World Leaders & Kenyans on Late Raila’s Birthday

The family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has expressed heartfelt gratitude to world leaders, Kenyan officials, and the public for their support following his passing.

The message was shared by his son, Raila Odinga Junior, as the family commemorated what would have been Baba Raila’s 81st birthday on January 7, 2026.

In a statement, the Odinga family said: “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.”

They singled out Kenyan leaders for their support, including President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and other senior government officials.

The family also thanked the funeral committees that coordinated a dignified send-off for the veteran politician.

“We are also grateful to The Rt Honourable Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, for his government’s assistance in bringing Baba back home swiftly,” the family added.

They also acknowledged condolences from former presidents and international dignitaries, including former President Uhuru Kenyatta, H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo (Nigeria), H.E. Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), H.E. Jakaya Kikwete (Tanzania), and H.E. Akinwumi Adesina (African Development Bank).

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Odinga Family Thanks Governors and Lawmakers

The statement highlighted the role of county leaders and lawmakers who facilitated the arrangements.

“Our sincere thanks extend to all the Governors and county assemblies of Kenya for facilitating a smooth send-off, especially H.E. Johnson Sakaja (Nairobi), H.E. Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu), and H.E. James Orengo (Siaya). We appreciate General Charles Muriu Kahariri, Rt. Hon. Moses Wetangula, Rt. Hon. Amason Kingi, and all members of the National Assembly for their seamless coordination of events,” the family said.

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Special Recognition to the Medical Team

Special recognition was given to the medical teams in Kenya and India who cared for Odinga during his final days.

The teams were led by Dr. David Oluoch-Olunya, Dr. Martin Wanyoike, Dr. Eva Njenga, Dr. Robin Mogere, and Dr. Abdul Msaddi, along with the staff of Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, Kerala, India, and the staff of Nairobi Hospital.

“Your compassionate care for Baba and commitment to his well-being will always be remembered,” the family noted.

The Odinga family concluded by thanking the public and media houses for their messages of love and support. “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.

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President William Ruto consults with ODM party leader Oburu Oginga during the ODM’S Founders Dinner in Mombasa. PHOTO/ODM.