ODM Secretary General Pays Tribute to Late Raila Odinga on What Would Have Been His Birthday

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General has today led a heartfelt tribute to the late party leader, Raila Odinga, on what would have been his birthday, reflecting on his life, legacy, and the enduring principles he championed.

In a statement, the Secretary General acknowledged that nearly three months since Raila’s passing, the nation and his followers are still grappling with the loss of a leader whose influence and vision were felt across Kenya. “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,” he said.

Describing Raila’s 80 years as a lifetime of courage, sacrifice, and an uncompromising belief in freedom and justice, the ODM Secretary General highlighted the late leader’s pivotal role as the country’s foremost second liberation warrior. He reminded Kenyans of Raila’s enduring contributions to multiparty democracy and the new constitution, which ushered in devolution and greater citizen participation.

The statement expressed concern over the emerging challenges in the political landscape since Raila’s death, citing a rise in impunity, intolerance, and threats to multiparty democracy. Raila’s insistence on protecting political pluralism, the integrity of party identities, and respect for democratic principles were underscored as a guiding framework for the country’s future.

“As the country’s foremost second liberation warrior, Baba was the acknowledged father of multipartyism and the new constitution, which gave birth to devolution; two facets of Kenyan life that were meant to lessen government influence on our daily lives and to share out national resources equitably,” the Secretary General stated.

Despite the challenges, he called on Raila’s followers, mentees, and political allies to continue standing firm on principle, advocating for a new political renaissance aligned with the preamble of the Constitution, which affirms the sovereignty of the people, celebrates diversity, and promotes rights, equality, democracy, social justice, and the rule of law.

“Raila Odinga was consistent in standing with the oppressed, speaking truth to power, and placing country before self, even when the personal cost was unbearably high. In moments when compromise was convenient, he chose principle. In moments when silence was safer, he chose resistance,” the statement read.

Concluding the message, the ODM Secretary General said Raila’s birthday serves as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and recommitment to the ideals he stood for. “His birthday warms our hearts immensely and makes us proud to have known him and learned at his feet. Happy birthday, Baba,” he said.

This tribute reaffirms Raila Odinga’s enduring legacy and the commitment of ODM and its supporters to uphold the democratic principles he championed throughout his life.