NAIROBI, Kenya, October 16, 2025 — The government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday to honour the late Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who died on Wednesday, October 15, while receiving treatment in India. He was 80.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen made the announcement through a Gazette Notice. He called on Kenyans to reflect on Raila’s lifelong contribution to democracy and national unity.
Kenya Enters National Mourning
The news of Raila’s death has thrown the country into mourning. Crowds have gathered in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Bondo to pay tribute to the man many credit for advancing Kenya’s democracy and devolution.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki confirmed that Raila will receive a State Funeral in accordance with President William Ruto’s directive.
“The late Prime Minister will be accorded all the honours of a statesman,” Kindiki told reporters during a press briefing at his Karen residence.
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Odinga’s Final Journey Home
A government delegation left for India on Wednesday to bring home Raila’s body. The authorities expect the plane carrying his remains to arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning.
President Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto, and members of the Odinga family will receive the body at JKIA. The team will escort the body to the Lee Funeral Home and then later to the Parliament Buildings for public viewing.
The National Funeral Committee has set up several public mourning centres across Kenya where citizens can watch the proceedings live.
“Every Kenyan will have a chance to say goodbye to this national icon,” Kindiki said.
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State Funeral Programme
The State Funeral Service will take place at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, with dignitaries and heads of state expected to attend.
After the ceremony, the body will move to Raila’s Karen home for a private vigil. On Saturday, it will be flown to Kisumu for public viewing at Moi Stadium before making the final road trip to Bondo, Siaya County, for an overnight stay.
Family members confirmed that the burial will take place on Sunday, October 19, in line with Raila’s wish to be buried within 72 hours of his death.
“He wanted a simple and dignified send-off,” a family spokesperson told reporters.
Tributes from Home and Abroad
Condolences continue to pour in from across the globe. President Ruto described Raila as “a patriot whose courage inspired generations.”
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta said Kenya had lost a “true reformer,” recalling Raila’s role in the 2002 democratic transition and the 2010 Constitution, which introduced devolution — one of his proudest legacies.
International leaders, including South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, also praised Raila’s leadership and lifelong commitment to human rights.
“Raila Odinga’s vision for Africa’s democracy will live on,” Blinken wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Read also: How Raila Odinga Shaped Kenya’s Path to Devolution and Democracy.
Nation Reflects on a Political Giant
As Kenya begins five days of national mourning, flags will fly at half-mast across all government offices. Churches, mosques, and temples are holding special prayers for peace and unity.
Authorities have tightened security in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Bondo as the nation prepares for the funeral procession. Thousands will line the streets to pay their respects as Raila’s body makes its way home.
“Kenya has lost one of its greatest sons,” Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o said. “This is a time to honour his memory by remaining united.”
Raila’s influence cut across generations. He fought for multi-party democracy, human rights, and economic inclusion — values that continue to shape Kenya’s identity today.
