President William Ruto has declared a seven-day period of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, EGH, one of Kenya’s most iconic political figures.
Odinga passed away on the morning of Wednesday, October 15, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
“In honor of the life and times of the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and on behalf of the grateful nation, I, William Ruto, under the authority vested in me as the President of the Republic of Kenya, declare that the nation will observe a period of national mourning from today until sunset of the day of his interment,” the President said in a statement issued from State House, Nairobi.
A Legacy Etched in Kenya’s Democratic Journey
Born on January 7, 1945, Raila Odinga dedicated his life to public service, becoming a central figure in Kenya’s Second Liberation. His contributions spanned decades from fighting for multi-party democracy to co-authoring the 2010 Constitution and serving as Kenya’s second Prime Minister.
“The father of our democracy, a tireless champion for social justice, a renowned Pan-Africanist, and a statesman without equal,” the Presidential Proclamation read. “His was a voice that fearlessly spoke truth to power, championed reform, and summoned us always to the higher ideals of nationhood.”
Odinga’s career included roles as a university lecturer, Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister, Leader of the Official Opposition, and Prime Minister. His unwavering belief in Kenya’s potential and commitment to justice and equity made him a symbol of servant leadership.
State Funeral and National Protocols
President Ruto confirmed that Raila Odinga will be accorded a full State Funeral , the highest ceremonial honour the Republic of Kenya can bestow.
“That Prime Minister Raila Odinga shall be accorded a State Funeral, with military honours and the attendant State protocols being rendered and observed,” Ruto declared.
While the date of the funeral has not yet been announced, a high-level committee co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga — Raila’s brother — will oversee the burial arrangements.
During the mourning period:
- National flags will fly at half-mast at State House, all public buildings, military bases, diplomatic missions, and naval vessels across Kenya
- Government officials will suspend the use of flags on official vehicles
- Raila’s body will lie in State, allowing Kenyans to pay their final respects
In Kenya, a State Funeral involves ceremonial participation by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Police Service (NPS), including gun salutes, uniformed pallbearers, and official escorts.
Repatriation of Raila’s Body from India
President Ruto also announced that the Government of India has offered to cover the cost of repatriating Raila Odinga’s body back to Kenya.
“The government of India, at the request of the government of Kenya, has offered to facilitate the repatriation of the remains of our former Prime Minister,” Ruto stated.
A special delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi including Mama Ida Odinga and Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has been dispatched to India to coordinate the repatriation.
A Devoted Family Man and Pan-Africanist
The proclamation also paid tribute to Odinga’s personal life his enduring partnership with Mama Ida Odinga, and his children Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie. It highlighted his love for football, his friendships across the continent, and his deep devotion to Kenya.
“Kenya is undoubtedly a much better place today because of the struggles, sacrifice, leadership, vision, and courage of a son of the soil who never tired in the pursuit of a better Kenya.”
National Reflection
As the nation enters a week of mourning, Kenyans from all walks of life are expected to reflect on Odinga’s legacy — one defined by courage, candour, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his ideals will continue to shape Kenya’s democratic path for generations to come.
“May Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s family be comforted; may his memory be honoured; and may his example be emulated,” President Ruto concluded.
