Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has called on leaders and members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to uphold unity and resilience as the party marks what would have been the 81st birthday of its late leader, Raila Odinga.

In a statement posted on her official X account on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, Passaris emphasised that Raila’s legacy transcends party politics and belongs to the people of Kenya and future generations, urging ODM leaders to honour him by remaining steadfast to the values that have defined the party over the years.

“Baba’s legacy belongs to the people of Kenya and to generations yet unborn. As ODM leaders and members, the greatest honour we can accord him is unity, resilience, and a renewed commitment to the values that have sustained our party through every season,” Passaris said.

First birthday without Raila

Her remarks came as she endorsed a message issued by the ODM National Executive Committee and the National Secretariat to commemorate Raila’s 80+1 birthday, the first since his passing.

“I fully endorse this message by the ODM National Executive Committee and the National Secretariat as we mark 80+1 in honour of The Right Honourable @RailaOdinga,” Passaris stated.

In the statement, the party described the day as a moment of reflection, gratitude and renewed resolve, as it honoured the life and legacy of its longtime leader.

“This 7th January 2026, as we mark his first birthday without his physical presence, we honour Mama Ida Odinga and the Odinga Family,” the party statement read.

The ODM leadership further expressed appreciation to President William Ruto and the Government of Kenya for what it termed dignity and support accorded to the party and the family during the difficult period.

Special mention was also made of the Government of India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for facilitating Raila Odinga’s repatriation.

“We sincerely thank H.E. Dr William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, and the entire Government of the Republic of Kenya for the dignity and support accorded during this period. We also appreciate the Government of India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for facilitating Baba’s repatriation,” the statement said.

The message went on to recognise the role played by former heads of state, the Azimio la Umoja coalition led by Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, ODM county governments and assemblies, Parliament, party structures at county and branch levels, the media, and millions of Kenyans who participated in honouring Raila’s life and political legacy.

“We salute the ODM fraternity as we appeal for continued unity and resolve,” the statement concluded.