The government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday in honour of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen officially gazetted the day in a notice received by Kenyans.co.ke on the morning of Thursday, October 16.
"In exercise of powers conferred in 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 honour of the former Prime Minister Rt. Honourable Raila Odinga," the gazette notice read.
Raila passed away at a private hospital in Koothattukulam in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, India, on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, aged 80, with President William Ruto declaring seven days of mourning.
Murkomen had earlier reiterated that in the wake of Raila's death, the government would work closely with the Odinga family to ensure he was accorded a befitting farewell.
The national holiday is expected to give Kenyans from all walks of life a chance to reflect on the life and legacy of Raila, who is considered one of the most important politicians in Kenya's history.
Since Wednesday, flags across the country, including at the State House, have been flying at half-mast, while all government engagements have been cancelled to allow for mourning of Raila.
On Wednesday, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki revealed that it was Raila Odinga's wish to be buried 72 hours after his passing. This could explain why a public holiday was declared as early as Friday.
"We have been advised as a committee by the family that it was the wish of Raila to be buried as soon as possible, and the family has informed us that the timeline is 72 hours," Kindiki announced.
Raila's body is expected to arrive at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 9:30am where it will be received by President William Ruto and the late ODM boss's close family members.
Ahead of the arrival of Raila's body, security has been tightened at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), with a heavy presence of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel who will take over proceedings once the body lands in Kenya.
As per the farewell programme detailed by Kindiki, Friday will also see Raila accorded a State Funeral at the Nyayo Stadium, in a service which will bring together dignitaries from across the world to mourn the former Premier.
From JKIA, Raila's body will be moved to Lee Funeral Home before being transported to the Parliament buildings, where it will lie in state.
Raila is expected to be buried in the family’s graveyard in Kango Ka Jaramogi in Bondo beside his late son Fiden and father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga's graves.
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