NAIROBI — The Kenyan government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, marking a day of national reflection for a man who shaped the country’s political journey for over four decades.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen made the announcement through a gazette notice issued on Thursday morning, confirming the state’s decision to suspend normal activity to mourn one of Kenya’s most influential leaders.
“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.
A Nation in Mourning
Raila Odinga, 80, died on Wednesday, October 15, at a private hospital in Koothattukulam, Kerala, India. His death prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the political divide and beyond Kenya’s borders.
President William Ruto declared a seven-day period of national mourning, ordering all flags to fly at half-mast. Government activities were suspended to allow the country to focus on remembering Raila’s immense contribution to democracy, governance, and national unity.
CS Murkomen said the public holiday would give citizens across the country “a chance to reflect on the life and legacy of a man who dedicated his years to the struggle for a just, united, and democratic Kenya.”
Final Journey Home
Raila’s body is expected to arrive at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, where it will be received by President Ruto, family members, and senior government officials. Security at the airport has been heightened, with the Kenya Defence Forces set to oversee the ceremonial reception.
After arrival, the body will be moved to Lee Funeral Home and later to Parliament Buildings, where the public will have an opportunity to pay their last respects as the body lies in state.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who is chairing the national funeral committee, revealed that the burial will follow Raila’s personal wish — to be laid to rest within 72 hours of his death.
“We have been advised as a committee by the family that it was Raila Odinga’s wish to be buried as soon as possible. The family has informed us that the timeline is 72 hours,” Kindiki said.
State Funeral at Nyayo Stadium
The government confirmed that Raila will be accorded full state honours during a funeral service at Nyayo Stadium, expected to draw world leaders, regional dignitaries, and thousands of mourners.
Following the service, the body will be transported to his ancestral home in Kango Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, where he will be buried beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his late son, Fidel.
Across the country, churches, mosques, and civic spaces are expected to hold parallel memorial services as Kenyans unite in grief for the man many called Baba.