Gov’t Declares Friday a Public Holiday to Mourn Raila Odinga

 The Government of Kenya has declared Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday to allow the nation to collectively mourn the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.

In a gazette notice issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, the government stated that the day will be dedicated to honoring Raila’s enduring legacy as a champion of democracy, justice, and national unity.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Public Holidays Act, it is notified for the general information of the public that Friday, the 17th of October 2025, shall be a public holiday to mourn and celebrate the life of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga,” the notice read in part.

The announcement comes as the country continues to observe an official period of mourning, following Raila’s death on Wednesday, October 15, at the age of 80.

Public viewing of his body is currently ongoing at Kasarani Stadium, where thousands of Kenyans have gathered to pay their final respects to the man widely regarded as the father of Kenya’s democracy.

President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and leaders across the political divide have paid glowing tributes to the late ODM Party Leader, describing him as a visionary statesman, freedom fighter, and unifying force who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.

Raila Odinga’s burial is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 19, in line with his wish to be laid to rest within 72 hours of his passing.

The declaration of the public holiday underscores the magnitude of the loss felt across the nation a final salute to a man whose courage, resilience, and sacrifice shaped the course of Kenya’s history.
Reporting by: Babz Abdul Raheem N.
Date: October 16, 2025