President William Ruto has declared a seven-day period of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
While addressing the nation from the State House on October 15, President William Ruto stated that during this time, the National Flag will fly at half-mast across Kenya and at all diplomatic missions abroad.
“In honour of Raila Odinga, I have declared 7 days of Mourning,” Ruto said.
As a mark of respect, President Ruto announced the suspension of all his public engagements to join Kenyans in mourning and reflection.
In his address, Ruto stated that Raila Odinga will be accorded a state funeral with full honours.
Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister of Kenya, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at an Ayurvedic eye hospital and research center in Koothattukulam, Ernakulam district, Kerala. He died at 80 years old.
Also Read: Raila Odinga Dies at 80
Funeral Arrangements
To coordinate the funeral arrangements, a joint committee co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has been established.
“In consultation with the family, a committee to be co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and my brother, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, has been set up to coordinate the funeral arrangements,” Ruto said.
Additionally, the government of India, at Kenya’s request, will facilitate the repatriation of Raila’s remains.
A delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi — and including Mama Ida Odinga, Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen and Hassan Joho, National Assembly leaders Kimani Ichung’wah and Junet Mohamed, and family representatives — has departed for India to oversee the process.
Also Read: Uhuru Mourns Raila Odinga in Long, Emotional Tribute
Ruto Praises Raila
President William Ruto described Raila Odinga as a pioneer of Kenyan politics and a steadfast champion of democracy.
He added that Raila championed the reforms that Kenyans hold dear and that his vision helped shape the course of the country’s history.
In his address, President Ruto described Raila as “a beacon of courage, a tower of principle, and a father of our democracy,” urging Kenyans to unite in honour of his legacy and reflect on his life’s enduring lessons.
Ruto hailed him as a once-in-a-generation leader — a giant in Kenya’s democratic landscape and a true statesman.
“For decades, Raila dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, equity, and freedom. He endured detention and persecution so that this nation might know and enjoy democracy,” Ruto said.
“He championed reforms that gave birth to the rights and freedoms we hold dear. His voice spoke for the oppressed, his conviction inspired generations, and his vision shaped the course of our history.”
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
