The government has cleared the air on the possibility of cancelling Mashujaa Day After the death of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The State has affirmed that this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations will proceed as scheduled on Monday, October 20, despite the nation’s ongoing mourning for the late Raila Amollo Odinga.
In a statement issued on October 18 by Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, the Executive Office of the President said that while the country continues to grieve the loss of Raila, described as “a great hero and statesman, whose indomitable spirit shaped our nation’s journey” the annual national holiday remains an important moment to honor Kenya’s heroes, past and present.
Raila will be laid to rest on Sunday at his home in Bondo, Siaya County. “May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the statement read.
Mashujaa Day is On
Mwaura said the 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations will take place at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, maintaining the original program set under the Public Holidays Act and Article 9(3) of the Constitution.
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He explained that the event symbolizes Kenya’s collective identity and provides an opportunity to pay tribute to those who built and defended the nation.
“This national holiday remains a cornerstone of our collective identity, where we gather to salute the sacrifices of those who built our nation,” Mwaura said.
“While peripheral events such as Energy Week and the Media Breakfast have been respectfully postponed allowing space for reflection and mourning, the core celebrations will unfold in full honor of our heroes.”
President William Ruto is expected to lead the national event, which will feature tributes, performances, and national reflections centered on unity and resilience.
Govt Call Upon Citizens to Show Up
The day’s theme, according to the Office of the Government Spokesperson, will align with the broader message of “honoring our heroes and recommitting to the dream of a stronger, united Kenya.”
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The statement also called upon citizens to show up in large numbers at the Mashujaa Day celebrations and to embody the spirit of courage and patriotism personified by the late Raila Odinga.
“Let us come together as one people to celebrate the enduring legacy of Raila Amollo Odinga and all who labored to bring your voices, and your stories in unity of resilience to weave our national fabric,” Mwaura urged.
Mashujaa Day, formerly known as Kenyatta Day, is one of Kenya’s key national holidays, commemorating the country’s heroes who fought for independence and contributed to nation-building.
This year’s event is expected to draw dignitaries from across the country and abroad, even as Kenyans continue to mourn the passing of one of their most influential political figures.
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