The Kenyan government has confirmed that Mashujaa Day celebrations will proceed as planned on Monday, October 20, despite the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a statement released Saturday evening, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura dismissed reports that the national holiday had been cancelled, saying the event would still take place at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.

“The government affirms with unwavering resolve that Mashujaa Day will proceed as planned,” Mwaura said. “He will be laid to rest tomorrow at his home in Bondo, and may his soul rest in eternal peace. In the shadow of this loss, we honour his memory by continuing to celebrate the heroes of our nation.”

Mwaura described Raila Odinga as “a great hero and statesman whose indomitable spirit shaped Kenya’s journey.” He added that while the nation remains in mourning, the celebrations would serve as a living tribute to Odinga’s lifelong dedication to Kenya’s struggle for democracy, justice, and unity.

“This national holiday remains a cornerstone of our collective identity,” Mwaura said. “It is enshrined in our Constitution and our Public Holidays Act — a day when we gather to salute the sacrifices of those who built our nation.”

The government spokesperson urged Kenyans to attend the celebrations in large numbers, framing the event as both a commemoration of Kenya’s heroes and a reflection of Raila’s legacy.

“Bring your voices and your stories in unity of resilience to weave a living tribute to a man who taught us to stand tall,” he said. “On this day, let us not only mourn but rise in the spirit of Harambee.”

Mwaura, however, noted that peripheral events tied to the holiday — including Energy Week and the Media Breakfast — had been postponed to respect the mourning period declared by President William Ruto.

Raila Odinga, who died on Wednesday, October 15, will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, in a private family ceremony at his home in Bondo, Siaya County. The former Prime Minister, who served from 2008 to 2013, will receive a state funeral with full military honours, as announced earlier this week.

As the nation prepares to celebrate its heroes on Mashujaa Day, the day’s ceremonies are expected to carry a somber but unifying tone — honouring not only those who built the nation’s past but also one of its most enduring sons.