President William Ruto has led the tributes to the late former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga on what could have been his 81st birthday.

In a sombre tribute shared on his X page on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, Ruto described the life and times of the political icon as one laden with lessons for individuals and the country at large.

The head of state particularly singled out Raila’s nationalistic virtue of putting the country first before self-interest.

Country before self

“Today, January 7, we mark what would have been the 81st birthday of Raila Odinga, a patriot whose life was defined by courage, sacrifice, and an unyielding love for Kenya. Baba taught us, time and again, 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 said.

Ruto implored Kenyans to not only celebrate the legacy left behind by the veteran leader but also reflect on Raila’s enduring legacy and the dream he had for the nation.

“He believed deeply in Kenya and never lost faith that our best days lie ahead. Whether in struggle or reconciliation, he chose stability over chaos, unity over division, and hope over despair. 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.”

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.

Baba taught us, time and again, that the country must always come before self, that no… pic.twitter.com/n8YECxUm7k

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) January 7, 2026

Sifuna, Arati tributes

Other leaders who have also commemorated Raila’s birthday include ODM deputy leader Simba Arati and Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.

In his tribute, Arati stated that despite Raila’s demise almost three months ago on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, his legacy lives on and remains alive.

“Today, The Enigma Baba Raila Odinga would have turned 80+1. We celebrate his extraordinary life, a towering giant of Kenyan politics, an unyielding fighter for justice, and an eternal beacon of hope for millions. Though you’re no longer with us, your legacy of resilience, democracy, and unity lives on, inspiring generations. We miss you, but your spirit endures!” his tribute read.

Jakom, it is nearly three months since you left. Many of us are no closer to overcoming this loss than we were two months ago. Indeed, your larger than life profile and the impact you had on us and the nation, means we may never stop mourning.

As it is your birthday today, we…

— Edwin Sifuna (@edwinsifuna) January 7, 2026

For his part, Edwin Sifuna chose to honor Raila Odinga’s legacy by issuing a strong statement emphasizing the need to continue the struggle—for political freedoms and the right to hold opinions—that Raila initiated.

“Despite this, it behoves all of us he mentored and nurtured to stand firm on principle and to lead a new political renaissance that seeks to align with the preamble of our constitution, which affirms the sovereignty of the people, celebrates our diversity and commits to rights, equality, democracy, social justice, and the rule of law.”

Sifuna, who has been at the center of an internal ODM storm—with a section of members demanding his expulsion—remained defiant, describing his stance as following in the path of the late leader.

“We do not have the luxury of rest, nor do we possess any fear in pursuit of Raila’s ideals. Raila Odinga was consistent in standing with the oppressed, speaking truth to power, and in placing country before self, even when the personal cost was unbearably high,” his statement read.

Today The Enigma Baba Raila Odinga would have turned 80+1, we celebrate his extraordinary life, a towering giant of Kenyan politics, unyielding fighter for justice, and eternal beacon of hope for millions. Though you're no longer with us, your legacy of resilience, democracy,… pic.twitter.com/5MwDrAskAE

— H.E Simba Arati (@SimbaArati) January 7, 2026