Government Declares Friday A Public Holiday In Honour Of Raila Odinga

The government has officially declared Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday in honor of the late former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.

The announcement was made through a gazette notice issued on Thursday, October 16, by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Friday, October 17, 2025, shall be a public holiday in honor of the former Prime Minister, Rt. Honorable Raila Odinga,” read the gazette notice.

The declaration comes just two days after Raila’s passing on Wednesday, October 15, at a private hospital in Koothattukulam, located in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, India.

He was 80 years old. President William Ruto had earlier declared seven days of national mourning, directing that flags be flown at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad.

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Murkomen noted that the public holiday would allow Kenyans to commemorate the life and immense contribution of Raila Odinga, a man whose political journey and dedication to democracy, justice, and national unity left an indelible mark on the nation. He added that the government was working closely with the Odinga family to ensure the statesman receives a dignified and befitting farewell.

Since Wednesday, somber scenes have been witnessed across the country. Flags at the State House, Parliament Buildings, and county offices have been lowered to half-mast, while government events and official celebrations have been suspended in honor of Raila.

Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, was a towering figure in the nation’s political landscape. Widely regarded as a champion of democracy and good governance, he played a central role in Kenya’s multi-party struggle and was instrumental in shaping key national reforms, including the 2010 Constitution.

The declaration of a public holiday is expected to provide Kenyans from all walks of life an opportunity to reflect on Raila’s decades-long service to the country, his fight for democracy, and his enduring call for unity and peace.

Memorial services are expected to be held across various counties as the nation comes together to celebrate the life of one of its most influential and transformative leaders.

Read Also: The Man, The Enigma, The Myth: Raila Odinga Bows Out