NAIROBI, Kenya – The government has declared Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday to honour the life and legacy of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who died on Wednesday while receiving treatment in India.
In a gazette notice, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the decision, saying the day will be dedicated to reflection and remembrance of the man who shaped Kenya’s democratic journey for over five decades.
Odinga, 80, passed away on October 15 in New Delhi, sparking a wave of national mourning as Kenyans gathered across the country to pay tribute to the veteran opposition leader and reform champion.
State Funeral Planned
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, speaking on behalf of President William Ruto, said Odinga will be accorded a State Funeral with full honours in recognition of his lifelong service to the nation.
He confirmed that the National Funeral Committee has set Sunday, October 19, as the burial date, in line with Odinga’s wish to be laid to rest within 72 hours of his death.
“The President has directed that the nation honour Mr Odinga as a statesman who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, democracy, and unity,” Kindiki said in Karen on Wednesday.
Body to Arrive Thursday Morning
A high-level delegation has been dispatched to India to oversee the repatriation of Odinga’s body.
The plane carrying his remains is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning, where President Ruto and Odinga’s family will receive it before it is taken to Lee Funeral Home.
From there, the body will be moved to Parliament Buildings for public viewing, allowing Kenyans to pay their last respects.
The government will also set up public mourning centres across the country to accommodate crowds unable to travel to Nairobi.
Nationwide Farewell Events
On Friday, a state funeral service will be held at Nyayo National Stadium, expected to draw dignitaries and world leaders from across Africa and beyond.
The body will then be taken to Odinga’s Karen residence for an overnight stay before proceeding to Kisumu’s Moi Stadium on Saturday for public viewing.
Later that evening, the procession will travel by road to Bondo, Siaya County, for another overnight vigil ahead of the Sunday burial.
Odinga’s death has plunged the nation into deep sorrow, with tributes pouring in from political allies and rivals alike, hailing him as a patriot, visionary leader, and defender of democracy.
