The Government of Kenya has declared Friday, October 17, 2025, a public holiday in honor of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga.

The announcement was made through a special issue of The Kenya Gazette, published on October 16, 2025, under Gazette Notice No. 15007.

According to the notice signed by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, the decision was made “in exercise of the powers conferred by section 3 of the Public Holidays Act (Cap 110).”

The statement further noted that the day would be observed “in honour of the departed former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga.”

Also Read: Inside Devamatha Hospital Where Raila Odinga Spent His Final Moments

Nation Mourns a Political Icon

Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s political history, died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, while undergoing treatment in India.

Reports indicated that he suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk within the premises of an Ayurvedic facility in Koothattukulam, Kerala State.

He was later rushed to Devamatha Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead upon arrival.

The news of his passing sent shockwaves across Kenya and beyond, with messages of condolence pouring in from world leaders, African statesmen, and citizens who viewed him as a symbol of democracy and reform.

President Ruto Leads Tributes

President William Ruto, in his official statement from State House, described Odinga as “a statesman whose courage and persistence defined Kenya’s democratic journey.”

The declaration of the public holiday paves the way for national mourning and state-led funeral arrangements.

Various committees led by the deputy president Dr. Kithure Kindiki have since been set up to oversee the burial of the veteran opposition leader, who served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 under the Grand Coalition Government.

Thousands are expected to attend memorial services across the country, with the main national event scheduled at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi on Friday, October 17, where leaders will gather to celebrate Odinga’s life and legacy.

Also Read:Ruto Announces 7-Day Mourning Period, Issues Key Directives After Raila Odinga’s Death

A Day of Reflection for the Nation

The Kenya Gazette notice concludes by reiterating that the holiday aims to allow Kenyans to “reflect on the life and service of a patriot who dedicated his life to the struggle for justice, unity, and democracy.”

As the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its most influential leaders, the declaration ensures that Friday will stand as a day of collective remembrance and reflection on Raila Odinga’s lifelong pursuit of a better Kenya.

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Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen. PHOTO/Murkomen X