Kitui County, October 19, 2025 — As the nation mourns the passing of one of its most revered statesmen, the Right Honorable Raila Amollo Odinga, the Government of Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to proceed with the Mashujaa Day celebrations scheduled for Monday, October 20th, 2025, at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.
Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s political history and a steadfast champion of democracy, will be laid to rest tomorrow at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County. Widely celebrated for his indomitable spirit and tireless service to the nation, Odinga’s legacy is interwoven with Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy, social justice, and national cohesion.
In a statement issued today, the government expressed deep sorrow over his passing, describing him as “a great hero and statesman, whose indomitable spirit shaped our nation’s journey.” His contributions will form a central theme in this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, transforming the day into both a national celebration and a moment of solemn remembrance.
While acknowledging the gravity of this loss, the government has made it clear that Mashujaa Day, a constitutionally enshrined public holiday under Article 9(3) of the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and the Public Holidays Act, will proceed as planned. This year’s celebration remains a cornerstone of national unity, serving as a platform to honor all Kenyans who have made sacrifices for the nation.
“Peripheral events such as Energy Week and the Media Breakfast have been respectfully postponed to allow space for reflection and mourning,” the statement read. “However, the core celebrations will unfold in full honor of our heroes, past and present.”
His Excellency President Dr. William Samoei Ruto will lead the national celebrations in Kitui, where Kenyans from across the country are expected to gather in large numbers. The theme of this year’s Mashujaa Day will pay special tribute to Raila Odinga’s lifelong service to Kenya, alongside the broader recognition of the many men and women who have helped shape the Republic.
The government has called upon all citizens to attend the event, emphasizing the importance of unity and patriotism in this pivotal moment.
“Let us come together as one people to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Rt Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga and all our mashujaa. Bring your voices, and your stories in unity of resilience to weave a living tribute to a man who taught us to stand tall,” the statement urged.
Kenyans are encouraged to use this day not only to mourn the passing of a national icon but to rise in the spirit of harambee — pulling together — and recommit to the shared dream of a stronger, more united Kenya.
As the sun sets on a remarkable chapter in Kenya’s history, the flame of hope and national pride burns ever brighter. May the memory of Raila Odinga inspire generations to come. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
May God bless Kenya and all her heroes.