President Ruto Declares 7-Day Mourning After Raila’s Death
Kenya has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on the morning of Wednesday, October 15, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India. His death has plunged the country into deep sorrow, marking the end of an era for a man many viewed as a symbol of democracy and resilience.
President William Ruto announced a seven-day period of national mourning in honor of Raila’s life and contribution to the nation. In a solemn statement issued from State House, the Head of State declared,
“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.”
During this mourning period, the President directed that all flags be flown at half-mast across the country, including at State House, public offices, and all Kenyan diplomatic missions abroad. Military bases, posts, stations, and naval vessels will also lower their flags in respect. The directive aims to unite the nation in grief and remembrance of a leader who shaped Kenya’s modern political identity.
President Ruto further revealed that the Indian government has offered to facilitate the repatriation of Raila’s remains back to Kenya at no cost. He explained that a delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, accompanied by Mama Ida Odinga and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, would immediately travel to India to oversee the process.
“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 confirmed.
Upon Raila’s return, the late opposition leader will be accorded a State Funeral with full military honors and official state protocols. The President emphasized that the farewell would reflect the respect and gratitude of the nation for Raila’s lifelong service.
“That Prime Minister Raila Odinga shall be accorded a State Funeral, with military honours and the attendant State protocols being rendered and observed,” Ruto added.
Across the country, Kenyans have expressed shock and heartbreak. From Kisumu to Nairobi, mourners have gathered in homes, churches, and public squares to light candles and sing songs in memory of “Baba.” Many described him as a champion of democracy who sacrificed comfort for Kenya’s freedom and unity. As the nation lowers its flags, Kenya stands together—mourning not just a political leader, but a man whose courage, endurance, and vision will forever remain etched in its history.
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President Ruto Declares 7-Day Mourning After Raila’s Death
