Political leaders opposed to the handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, Raila Odinga, came out to wish the latter a happy birthday despite their political differences.
Leading the goodwill messages was Deputy President William Ruto, who steered clear of satire to wish the former Prime Minister a happy birthday. He wrote: “Happy birthday Jakom. May you be blessed with many more, Raila Odinga.”
United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party leader, Johnstone Muthama, also took time to wish his former ally in the National Super Alliance (NASA) a happy birthday.
“Happy Birthday Jakom Raila Odinga. The Hustler Nation wishes you good health as you celebrate your special day,” wrote Muthama.
Here is a look at other critics who wished Raila well:
Cleophas Malala: Happy birthday former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga. May this day give you joy as we grow towards a more united, prosperous, and peaceful Kenya.
Millicent Omanga: Happy 77th birthday Jakom.
Jonathan Mueke: Happy 77th birthday to Hon. Raila Odinga. A great milestone, wishing you many more years.
Other leaders also took their time to wish the presidential hopeful a happy birthday on his big day.
William Kabogo: A very Happy birthday wish to my friend Jakom. May you have many more Raila Odinga
Ababu Namwamba: Happy 77th Birthday Jatelo. May long life, good health, and prosperity be your portion.
Odinga’s family also joined in sharing their goodwill messages. His son, Raila Junior wrote: "There can be no better occasion than this to let you know how grateful we are for having you around. Happy 77th birthday Baba Raila Odinga, all the best."
His daughter, Winnie Odinga, in the meantime appreciated Raila as a teacher and best friend.
“Happy birthday to my teacher, my twin, my best friend, and my hero, love you Dad!” she wrote.
Odinga enjoyed a cake-cutting ceremony in a colorful event at the Bomas of Kenya, attended by youth allied to the Azimio La Umoja movement and other political leaders.
