The government has declared Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, while receiving medical treatment in India.
The declaration means Kenyans will enjoy an extended four-day weekend, as the Mashujaa Day celebrations will follow on Monday, October 20, at the Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.
In a gazette notice issued on Thursday, October 16, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the holiday, citing powers granted under Section 3 of the Holidays Act.
“In exercise of powers conferred in Section 3 of the Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Friday, October 17, 2025, shall be a public holiday in honour of the former Prime Minister, Rt. Honourable Raila Odinga,” the notice read.
Preparations are underway for a state funeral to be held at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, where Odinga will be accorded full state honours. His burial is scheduled for Sunday, October 19, at his Opoda home in Bondo, Siaya County.
President William Ruto described the gazettement as a mark of respect and tribute to a man he termed “a political giant, national hero, true father of democracy, and fearless freedom fighter.”
“I have postponed all my public engagements for the coming days to join the nation in this period of mourning and deep reflection,” President Ruto said in a statement issued on Wednesday, October 15.
The government has called on Kenyans to observe the day with dignity and unity, reflecting on Odinga’s decades of service and sacrifice for democracy and national cohesion.
