President William Ruto has declared seven days of national mourning to honour former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a patriot and the father of Kenya’s democracy. The government and the Odinga family will jointly plan a state funeral as arrangements begin to repatriate Raila’s body from India.
Nairobi, Kenya – October 15, 2025- President William Ruto has declared seven days of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, directing that flags be flown at half-mast across the country and at all Kenyan missions abroad.
In a televised address from State House, the Head of State described Odinga as “the father of Kenya’s democracy and a statesman who dedicated his life to a peaceful and united country.”
President Ruto said the government, in consultation with the Odinga family, will accord the former Prime Minister a state funeral with full honours.
“Raila Amolo Odinga stood for freedom, justice, and the spirit of one Kenya. His courage and leadership defined our political history. In his honour, I declare seven days of national mourning beginning today,” the President said.
The President also announced the formation of a joint funeral committee comprising family representatives and senior government officials. The team will be co-chaired by Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother, and Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki.
Dr. Oburu’s team will represent the family while Prof. Kindiki will lead the government side in organising national funeral arrangements and related logistics.
President Ruto added that both the Kenyan and Indian governments are coordinating efforts to facilitate the repatriation of Raila Odinga’s remains from Kerala, India, where he passed away on Wednesday morning.
A high-level delegation led by Raila’s wife Ida Odinga is expected to depart for India immediately to oversee the repatriation process. She will be accompanied by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Mining and Minerals Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho, Leader of Majority Kimani Ichung’wah, and Leader of Minority Junet Mohammed.
The President also announced the suspension of all public engagements by himself and directed all government officials to suspend non-essential public activities during the mourning period as a mark of respect.
“This is a moment for unity and reflection. I call upon all Kenyans, regardless of political persuasion, to honour Raila Odinga’s memory by standing together in peace and solidarity,” Ruto said.
The government is expected to release a detailed funeral program and public participation plan once consultations with the Odinga family are concluded.
Odinga, 80, died in Kerala, India, while undergoing Ayurvedic treatment. He will be remembered for his decades-long struggle for democracy and reform, his role in the 2008 Grand Coalition Government, and his legacy as a unifying national figure.
