This archive report was first published on 7 January 2020.
On January 7, 2020, Raila Odinga, the ODM party leader, marked a significant milestone as he turned 75 years old. The day was filled with warm birthday wishes from family members, political friends and foes, and Kenyans at large.
The hashtag #HappyBirthdayBaba trended on Twitter as Kenyans extended their messages to Odinga. In response, Odinga celebrated the occasion by sending goodwill messages to all Kenyans.
Among the birthday wishes was a message from Governor Hassan Joho, who tweeted, 'To my Party leader and mentor Rt. Hon. @RailaOdinga, a happy birthday. May the Almighty God give you long life and wisdom to continue leading the democratization of our Nation.'
Even some of Odinga's fierce critics had kind words for him. Mutahi Ngunyi tweeted, 'Happy Birthday @RailaOdinga. You created Ruto. FACT. You created Mudavadi. FACT. You created a PAPER TIGER revolutionary called #MIGUNAMIGUNA. Fact. You are a MAKER of THINGS. And as you AGE remember this: “…revolutionaries have no EXPIRY date” (Gaddafi)'
As Odinga celebrated his 75th birthday, he expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and wished greater things for the country and its people.
