Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has marked her 61st birthday in solemn reflection, dedicating the day to the late ODM leader Raila Odinga, whom she described as her Shujaa on the Mashujaa Day 2025.
In an X post on Monday, October 20, 2025, Passaris expressed deep emotion and gratitude for the life and legacy of the late Odinga, whom she honoured not only as a political leader but also as a personal mentor and father figure.
“As I turn 61 today, I thank God for the gift of life, for breath, for purpose. This year, my heart is not in celebration but in reflection,” she wrote.
Passaris was the staunch ally of the late Prime Minister, who bowed down at the age of 80 while undergoing specialized treatment in India.
Choosing to forgo the usual fanfare associated with birthdays, Passaris instead used the occasion to honour Odinga’s enduring influence on her life and career.
“I remember Baba: a father, a mentor, a friend, and my hero. Baba believed in me, guided me, and lifted my hand with pride and love,” she said.
Passaris described her relationship with Odinga as one built on mutual respect and unwavering support, highlighting the deep personal impact he had on her political journey.
“I miss his wisdom, his laughter, his spirit. Rest in peace, Baba, My Shujaa,” she added.
The Mashujaa national celebration is marked at the Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui, graced by President William Ruto.
Kenya bid farewell to one of its most iconic political figures as former Prime Minister and long-serving opposition leader Raila Odinga was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, marking the end of a transformative era in Kenyan politics on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
After arriving at the Bondo home, a flag covering Raila’s coffin was removed and properly folded by the military personnel, set to be handed over to Ida Odinga, symbolising the nation’s collective appreciation for Raila’s unwavering service.
The coffin was then lowered into the grave after the church made a short prayer. In honour of Raila’s contribution to the nation, a 17-gun salute was made by the military.
The gun salute was then followed by a short prayer before the family was allowed to pour soil into Raila Odinga’s grave.
