NAIROBI, Kenya – Mashujaa Day celebrations will go on as planned on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, even as Kenya continues to mourn the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, the government has confirmed.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura urged Kenyans to attend the national event in large numbers, noting that this year’s commemoration will also serve as a tribute to the fallen opposition leader.
“The Government affirms with unwavering resolve that Mashujaa Day, our sacred celebration of Kenya’s heroes, will proceed as planned,” Mwaura said. “This national holiday remains a cornerstone of our collective identity, where we gather to salute the sacrifices of those who built our nation.”
He described the late Raila as “a great hero and statesman, whose indomitable spirit shaped our nation’s journey.”
Tribute Amid Mourning
Mwaura said while the main ceremony will go ahead, several auxiliary events linked to the holiday — including Energy Week and the Media Breakfast — have been postponed to give the nation time to reflect during the period of mourning.
“The core celebrations will unfold in full honour of our heroes, past and present,” he said. “Peripheral events have been respectfully postponed to allow space for reflection and mourning as directed by President William Samoei Ruto.”
The government spokesperson called on citizens to mark the day in unity and resilience, honouring both the freedom fighters who shaped Kenya’s independence and Odinga’s lifelong contribution to democracy and reform.
“Let us come together as one people to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga and all our mashujaa,” he said. “On this day, let us not only mourn but rise in the spirit of Harambee, honouring our fallen hero by recommitting to the dream of a stronger, united Kenya.”
National Mourning and Presidential Adjustments
The confirmation comes during a seven-day period of national mourning declared by President Ruto following Raila’s death. The former Prime Minister will be laid to rest on Sunday at his Bondo home in Siaya County.
In the wake of the tragedy, President Ruto cancelled his planned development tour of the Ukambani region, which was to precede the national celebrations.
The President had been scheduled to launch and inspect several road projects in Kitui, Machakos and Makueni counties, including the Kwasiku–Migwani–Mbondoni and Kangundo–Mwala roads.
About Mashujaa Day 2025
Mashujaa Day, formerly known as Kenyatta Day, is one of Kenya’s key national holidays dedicated to honouring men and women who contributed to the nation’s liberation and development.
This year’s event in Kitui is expected to draw national and county leaders, as well as thousands of Kenyans from across the country and foreign dignitaries.
