Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s family has issued a heartfelt appreciative message to Kenyans and world leaders who stood with them during his send off.
In a statement published on the dailies on Wednesday January 7, to mark what would have been his 81st birthday, the family expressed their profound sense of loss, asserting that the late Raila was the pillar of strength and unity, whose vision and leadership left a lasting mark on the country.
“The Odinga Family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood with us during this profoundly painful time following the passing of our beloved Baba Raila Amolo Odinga,” the statement read in part.
They added that his qualities as a leader earned him the affectionate title “Baba” among Kenyans.
As a gesture of gratitude, the Raila’s family singled out President William Ruto, Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki, PCS Musalia Mudavadi and the entire government of Kenya for what they termed as outstanding support and kindness.
They also thanked the various funeral committees that facilitated a proper send off for the late former Premier.
The family acknowledged Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, for his government’s assistance in repatriating the body of Raila Odinga back to Kenya.
India accorded the late Raila Odinga significant military respect, with Prime Minister Modi ordering a military aircraft to transport his body from Kerala to Mumbai.
The family further confirmed receiving condolences and the presence of former Presidents Uhuru Kenyatta, Olusegun Obasanjo (Nigeria), Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), Jakaya Kikwete (Tanzania), and Akinwumi Adesina (African Development Bank), appreciating them for their willingness to travel from afar to pay respects to Raila.
Additionally, the family extended their appreciation to county governors and county assemblies of Kenya for facilitating a smooth transit of Odinga’s body, specifically mentioning Johnson Sakaja (Nairobi), Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu), and James Orengo (Siaya).
They also recognized CDF General Charles Muriu Kahariri, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and all members of the National Assembly for their seamless coordination of events.
“We are thankful to the many world leaders, friends, and the people of Kenya for their outpouring of love and support,” adding that, “Your kind messages and gestures brought us immense comfort during this difficult time.”
The Odinga family also acknowledged the important role played by all media houses in the coverage of Raila’s funeral, alongside gratitude for the entire staff and The ODM Party fraternity who supported him throughout his lifetime.
“A special acknowledgment goes to the dedicated medical team led by Dr. David Oluoch-Olunya, Dr. Martin Wanyoike, Dr. Eva Njenga, Dr. Robin Mogere, and Dr. Abdul Msaddi, the staff of Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, Kerala, India and the staff of Nairobi Hospital. Your compassionate care for Baba and commitment to his well-being will always be remembered,” the family said.
“We cherish all the messages of support, love, and kindness. It brings us peace to know how deeply Baba touched the lives of many.”
