The Government of Kenya has declared Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while receiving treatment in India. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the gazette notice, marking a day for national mourning.
Raila Odinga’s demise has left a profound impact on the nation, with Kenyans expressing grief and concern for the country’s political future. The National Funeral Committee confirmed that in accordance with family wishes, the former Prime Minister will be buried on Sunday, October 19, 2025, following a State Funeral with all honours befitting a statesman.
Repatriation and Public Viewing
A Kenyan delegation was dispatched to India to oversee the repatriation of Raila Odinga’s body. The Kenya Airways flight carrying the delegation and the body is scheduled to touch down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning, where the body will be received by President William Ruto and family members. From JKIA, the body will be escorted to the Lee Funeral Home and later moved to the Parliament buildings in Nairobi for public viewing. Additionally, designated public grieving sites across the country will allow citizens to participate in mourning.
State Funeral Ceremony
On Friday, October 17, a State Funeral service will be held at Nyayo Stadium, with attendance expected from national leaders, dignitaries, and foreign VVIPs. After the service, the body will be moved to Raila Odinga’s Karen residence for an overnight stay.
The following day, Saturday, the body will travel to Kisumu for public viewing at Moi Stadium before making its final journey by road to Bondo, where it will remain overnight ahead of the Sunday interment. The funeral arrangements honour Raila’s directive that he be buried within 72 hours of his death, highlighting the importance of following his final wishes.
This public holiday serves as a national moment of reflection, paying tribute to Raila Odinga’s immense contribution to Kenya’s democracy, his role in devolution, and his enduring legacy in shaping the political landscape of the nation.
