"Forever in our hearts": Kenyans honour Raila on his posthumous 81st birthday

Kenyans on Wednesday marked what would have been former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s 81st birthday with nationwide tributes celebrating the life, legacy and enduring influence of the veteran opposition leader.

Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Raila was the son of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mary Juma Odinga.

Political leaders, Kenyans, and supporters across the country described Raila as a towering figure whose contributions to Kenya’s democratic struggle and reform agenda continue to shape the nation long after his death.

Messages of remembrance flooded social media, while a commemorative gathering was expected to be held in Mombasa in his honour.

Senior politicians from across the political divide hailed Raila’s resilience, patriotism and commitment to constitutionalism, noting that he dedicated much of his life to the fight for multiparty democracy, social justice and inclusive governance.

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka joined Kenyans in honouring the late Raila, paying a brief but poignant tribute on his posthumous 81st birthday.

“We remember. We appreciate. We honour Baba,” Kalonzo said.

The Wiper leader described Raila as a towering national figure whose contribution to Kenya’s democracy and reform journey will endure for generations.

Kalonzo said Raila’s legacy as a freedom fighter, statesman and mentor to many leaders remains deeply embedded in the country’s political history, urging Kenyans to uphold the values of unity, justice and inclusive governance that he championed throughout his life.

On her part, Homa Bay Governor Wanga said, "7.1.2026: Baba 80+1. Forever in our hearts, Jakom."

An X user, Moibenshire, said, “On this day, January 7, 2026, the first posthumous birthday of Raila Amolo Odinga, we remember a giant whose 81st year would have begun. Born on January 7, 1945, Raila dedicated his life to the relentless pursuit of justice, democratic reform, and a more equitable Kenya,” the statement read.

“His journey of struggle, sacrifice, and unwavering vision left an indelible mark that reaches far beyond political borders and spans generations. Even in his absence, his legacy endures inspiring ongoing conversations about democracy, accountability, and true leadership. May Baba’s spirit continue to guide and ignite the fight for a just and united Kenya.”

Another user, Daniel Muthomi, said, “From struggle to statesmanship, Raila Odinga’s contribution to our nation defines generations of political awakening.”

Edgar said, “It has been four months since Raila Odinga passed on, yet it still feels as though Baba simply went abroad and will one day return. Today, we mark his birthday not as an ordinary birthday, but one observed in the absence of the very rights he fought for. It is a birthday under a dictatorial regime that is busy silencing critics and buying off even members of his own ODM party; a birthday without freedom.”

Raila played a central role in the country’s political history for more than four decades.

He served as prime minister between 2008 and 2013 and was a key figure in the push for constitutional reforms that culminated in the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.

Following his death last year, the government accorded him a state funeral and posthumously awarded him the country’s highest civilian honour in recognition of his service to the nation.

As Kenyans marked his 81st birthday, many described Raila as a national icon whose legacy remains alive in the country’s democratic institutions and ongoing conversations about justice, equality and national cohesion.