The Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has officially declared Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
In a Gazette Notice released on Thursday, CS Murkomen stated that the national holiday will give Kenyans an opportunity to mourn, reflect, and celebrate the life and legacy of one of the country’s most influential leaders.
Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s political history, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, while undergoing treatment in India. He was 80 years old. His passing has plunged the nation into deep mourning, with thousands of Kenyans gathering across the country to pay tribute to the man who defined Kenya’s democratic struggle for decades.
The National Funeral Committee on the State Funeral of the late Mr. Odinga, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, confirmed that the former Prime Minister will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, in accordance with his family’s wishes.
Deputy President Kindiki noted that Raila had expressed his wish to be buried within 72 hours of his passing — a directive the family and the government are committed to fulfilling.
“In line with President William Ruto’s proclamation, the late Raila Odinga will be accorded a State Funeral with full honours befitting a national statesman,” Kindiki said during a press briefing at Karen.
Official Funeral Programme
Wednesday, October 15
- A Kenyan delegation was dispatched to India to oversee the repatriation of Raila’s remains.
Thursday, October 16
- The plane carrying the late leader’s body is expected to arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in the morning.
- President William Ruto, alongside family members and senior government officials, will receive the body, which will then be taken to Lee Funeral Home.
- Later, the body will be moved to Parliament Buildings for public viewing, with live broadcasts and public mourning stations set up across the country.
Friday, October 17
- A State Funeral Service will be held at Nyayo National Stadium, bringing together national and international dignitaries.
- Following the ceremony, the body will be transported to Raila’s Karen residence for an overnight vigil.
Saturday, October 18
- The body will be flown to Kisumu for public viewing at Moi Stadium, before proceeding by road to Bondo, Siaya County, for another overnight stay.
Sunday, October 19
- Raila Odinga will be laid to rest at his Opoda home in Bondo during a service conducted under the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) traditions.
