Government Clarifies: Mashujaa Day to Proceed Despite Raila Odinga’s Passing

Government Clarifies: Mashujaa Day to Proceed Despite Raila Odinga’s Passing

The government has refuted claims that Mashujaa Day celebrations scheduled for Monday, October 20, have been cancelled following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a detailed statement on Saturday evening, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura confirmed that the event would proceed as planned at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County. He, however, emphasized that the country remains in mourning for one of its greatest statesmen.

“He will be laid to rest tomorrow at his home in Bondo, and may his soul rest in eternal peace. In the shadow of this loss, the government affirms with unwavering resolve that Mashujaa Day will proceed as planned,” Mwaura declared.

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Raila’s Spirit to Inspire the Celebrations

Mwaura described Raila as a patriot whose courage, resilience, and vision shaped Kenya’s democracy. He noted that while the country mourns his loss, it must also celebrate the spirit of heroism that Odinga embodied.

“This national holiday remains a cornerstone of our collective identity, where we gather to salute the sacrifices of those who built our nation,” he stated.

According to Mwaura, the Mashujaa Day celebrations will also serve as a tribute to Raila’s lifelong struggle for justice and freedom.

“Bring your voices and your stories in unity of resilience to weave a living tribute to a man who taught us to stand tall. On this day, let us not only mourn but rise in the spirit of Harambee,” he urged Kenyans.

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A National Holiday of Reflection and Pride

The government spokesperson reaffirmed that Mashujaa Day, established under the Public Holidays Act and protected by Article 9(3) of the Constitution, cannot be suspended.

He explained that the day is not only a public celebration but also a sacred national obligation that honors Kenya’s heroes across generations.

“Even as we grieve, we must remember that Mashujaa Day is a testament to resilience, unity, and progress — values Raila Odinga himself lived for,” Mwaura added.

He encouraged Kenyans from all walks of life to turn up in large numbers and celebrate the legacy of national heroes, including Odinga.

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Peripheral Events Postponed

Despite confirming that the main event will continue, Mwaura announced that several related government programs had been postponed.

“Peripheral events such as Energy Week and the Media Breakfast have been rescheduled in honor of the late Raila Odinga, as directed by His Excellency President William Ruto,” Mwaura clarified.

The government’s decision comes as the country continues to mourn Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, after suffering a cardiac arrest.

The former Prime Minister will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, in a private family ceremony at his Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County.

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A Nation in Mourning, Yet Moving Forward

Mwaura concluded by reminding Kenyans that Odinga’s memory should inspire unity, peace, and national pride as citizens celebrate the country’s heroes.

“In honoring him, let us also honor every Kenyan who stands tall for justice, equality, and freedom,” he said.

As Kenya prepares to celebrate Mashujaa Day, the event now carries a deeper meaning — one of collective mourning, gratitude, and resilience.

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Government Clarifies: Mashujaa Day to Proceed Despite Raila Odinga’s Passing