Senate chambers were on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, filled with joy and songs as Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga turned a year older.
While the session resumed in the afternoon after the adjourning of the morning sitting due to lack of quorum, the lawmakers celebrated Oburu by singing birthday songs.
Speaker Amason Kingi was the first one to send birthday wishes but other members capitalised on the opportunity to sing their hearts out in celebrating the veteran lawmaker.
Efforts by Speaker Kingi to stop them midway failed as the senators sang the Happy Birthday song to its full length before allowing the proceedings to continue.
“I think you know honourable senators that the youngest member of the house turns 81 today. That’s none other than the senator for Siaya Oburu Oginga, happy birthday Senator Oburu!” Kingi said but he was immediately interrupted by songs from other senators.
After the song, some senators went ahead to share their joyful greetings to the lawmaker who had just turned 81.
Speaker @HonAmasonKingi extends birthday wishes to the 'youngest' Senator, Sen. Oburu Oginga (Siaya), on his 81st birthday, as the House bursts into song in celebration. #SenateLive pic.twitter.com/L6GNcFT4ua
— Senate of Kenya (@Senate_KE) October 15, 2024
Oburu is the elder brother to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. He is an immediate former member of the East African Legislative Assembly, based in Arusha Tanzania.
In 2022, he successfully contested for the senatorial position and won earning his space in the Senate where he is the oldest member.
Son’s message
Although this year’s celebration was not marked with pomp and colour unlike when he turned 80, his son Jaoko Oburu Odinga celebrated him for his leadership and wisdom.
Jaoku described Oburu as a pillar who had guided and loved his family.
“We celebrate you today. We celebrate your Wisdom, Leadership, Love and Guidance that you have always provided to us. Happy Birthday, Dad. May the Almighty protect you and give you more life,” Jaoko wrote on his X platform.
In 2023, Oburu hosted several leaders drawn from the Azimio Party during his birthday celebration. The occasion was marked by cake cutting, songs and dance.
