The government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday to honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, while receiving treatment in India at the age of 80.
In a gazette notice, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the holiday, stating it would be observed in memory of Raila’s lifelong contribution to Kenya’s democracy, governance, and development.
The National Funeral Committee confirmed that the ODM leader will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, in line with his family’s wishes.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said Raila will be accorded a full State Funeral with military honours, following President William Ruto’s proclamation. Speaking in Karen, Kindiki revealed that the late opposition chief had expressed a wish to be buried within 72 hours of his passing.
A Kenyan delegation was dispatched to India on Wednesday to coordinate the repatriation of Raila’s body, which is expected to arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning. President Ruto, alongside Raila’s family, will receive the body before it is moved to Lee Funeral Home for preservation.
Public viewing will begin at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, where Kenyans will pay their final respects. Several public mourning centres will also be set up across the country for citizens to follow the live proceedings.
A State funeral service is scheduled for Friday at Nyayo National Stadium, expected to attract dignitaries and leaders from across Africa and beyond. The body will then be moved to Raila’s Karen residence for an overnight vigil before being flown to Kisumu’s Moi Stadium on Saturday for a public memorial.
The procession will then travel by road to Bondo, Siaya County, where the late statesman will be laid to rest.
Raila’s passing has sent shockwaves across the nation, with tributes pouring in from leaders and citizens alike. Many have hailed him as a champion of democracy, a freedom fighter, and a pillar of Kenya’s political history.
