By KPC Reporter
Kenya has declared Friday, 17 October 2025, a public holiday in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, following his death recently in India.
A special issue of the Kenya Gazette dated 16 October and signed by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen states: “It is notified for the general information of the public that… Friday, the 17th October, 2025, shall be a public holiday in honour of the departed former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga.”
Odinga, 80, passed away in Kochi, India, where he had been undergoing medical treatment.
His death has sparked a wave of tributes from across the world, with President William Ruto describing him as “a statesman whose courage, resilience, and love for country inspired generations.”
The government’s national funeral committee, chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, announced that Odinga’s body would lie in state at Parliament Buildings on Thursday, 16 October, allowing the public to pay their last respects.
A state funeral service will then be held at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, the 17th — the declared public holiday — before burial on Sunday, 19 October, at his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County.
“This will be a State event befitting the stature of the Right Honourable Raila Odinga,” said Kindiki, adding that preparations were underway to ensure full national participation.
Foreign dignitaries, African leaders, and Kenyans from all walks of life are expected to attend the ceremonies, which will be broadcast live.
The Interior Ministry urged Kenyans to use the public holiday “to reflect on the life and service” of a man many regard as one of the country’s most consequential political figures.
