Kenya’s President William Ruto has paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on what would have been his 81st birthday, describing him as a patriot whose life was defined by courage, sacrifice and an unwavering love for the country.
In a message shared on X on Wednesday, January 7, Ruto said Odinga consistently placed the interests of Kenya above personal ambition, noting that his political journey was guided by a deep commitment to unity and peace.
“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 said.
The President said Odinga, popularly known as Baba, left behind enduring lessons on leadership and nationhood, particularly the importance of putting the country before individual or partisan interests.
“Baba taught us that the country must always come before self, that no ambition is greater than our unity, and no victory more important than our peace,” he added.
Ruto noted that even during periods of intense political contestation, Odinga remained guided by faith in the nation and belief in a better future for Kenya.
“He believed deeply in Kenya and never lost faith that our best days lie ahead,” the President said.
Reflecting on Odinga’s long political career, Ruto said the former Prime Minister repeatedly chose dialogue, reconciliation and stability over conflict, even in moments of personal and political adversity.
“Whether in struggle or reconciliation, he chose stability over chaos, unity over division and hope over despair,” Ruto said.
The President said Odinga’s legacy should continue to inspire both leaders and citizens to rise above partisan politics and work together for the common good.
“As we remember him on his birthday, we celebrate not just the man but the enduring lessons he left us — to close ranks for the common good, to rise above partisanship and to keep faith in the Kenyan dream,” Ruto said.
Odinga served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and remained a central figure in Kenya’s political life for decades, playing a key role in the country’s struggle for multi-party democracy and constitutional reform.
He contested the presidency several times and earned respect from supporters and rivals alike for his resilience and commitment to democratic ideals.
Kenyans marked what would have been Odinga’s 81st birthday with reflection on his contribution to the nation and the values of unity, peace and hope that defined his public life.
