NAIROBI – October 15, 2025 – President William Ruto has issued a presidential proclamation announcing the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, plunging the nation into a period of official mourning.
In a solemn address from State House, Nairobi, the President notified “Kenya, Africa, and the World” that Odinga passed away on the morning of October 15, 2025, in India, where he was receiving medical treatment.
The proclamation paints a portrait of a national icon, describing Odinga as “the father of our democracy” and “a tireless champion for social justice.” It credits him as “the most consequential figure in the Second Liberation” and the “torchbearer” in the journey towards the 2010 Constitution.
Born on January 7, 1945, Odinga’s long career of public service was highlighted, including his roles as a university lecturer, Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and the second Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya. He was lauded as “the very embodiment of patriotism and selfless servant-leadership.”
In honour of his life and legacy, President Ruto has ordered the following:
- A period of national mourning will be observed from today until sunset on the day of his interment.
- Odinga will be accorded a State Funeral with full military honours.
- The Kenyan flag will be flown at half-mast at all public buildings, diplomatic missions, military bases, and across the entire nation until sunset on the day of his burial.
- Top government officials, including the President, Deputy President, and Cabinet Secretaries, are directed not to fly the national flag on their official vehicles for the duration of the mourning period.
The proclamation concluded with condolences to his wife, Mama Idah Odinga, his children—Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie—and the entire Oginga Odinga family, describing the former Prime Minister as a “deeply devoted family man, an avid football enthusiast, and an earnest friend to many.”
