By Ginaba Lino
Kenya has plunged into national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, a towering statesman whose lifelong dedication to justice, democracy, and national transformation shaped the country’s modern history.
In an official proclamation issued on Wednesday, President William Samoei Ruto hailed the late Odinga as a “titan of conscience” and “visionary of uncommon resolve,” whose passing marked an immense loss not only to Kenya but to the African continent.
“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,” President Ruto said in the statement.
The proclamation described Odinga’s legacy as foundational to Kenya’s political evolution—from his central role in ushering in a new constitutional dispensation, to championing democratic reforms and inspiring generations of Kenyans through his values of courage, candour, and compassion.
In honour of Odinga’s life and service, President Ruto announced a series of national measures, including:
A period of national mourning from October 15 until sunset on the day of Odinga’s internment. A State Funeral with full military honours and adherence to state protocols The flying of the national flag at half-mast at State House, across all public institutions, military bases, diplomatic missions, and naval vessels throughout Kenya and abroad.
Additionally, President Ruto ordered that no official vehicles belonging to top government leaders—including the President, Deputy President, Chief Justice, Cabinet Secretaries, and parliamentary leaders—shall fly the national flag during the mourning period.
Born on January 7, 1945, Raila Odinga dedicated his life to Kenya’s democratic evolution, earning widespread recognition as the “father of Kenyan democracy” and a fierce Pan-Africanist. From his days as a university lecturer to serving as a Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister, and ultimately as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, Odinga remained committed to justice, equity, and national unity.
His name, the proclamation stated, “is etched indelibly in the annals of our Republic’s journey towards greater freedom, democracy, and prosperity.”
The President extended heartfelt condolences to Odinga’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, his children—including Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie—and the extended Odinga family.
“As the former Prime Minister served Kenya, Africa, and the world, he remained a deeply devoted family man, an avid football enthusiast, and an earnest friend to many,” Ruto noted.
President Ruto concluded the proclamation by expressing his hope that the legacy of Raila Odinga would inspire future generations.
“May Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s family be comforted; may his memory be honoured; and may his example be emulated.”
The proclamation was signed and sealed at State House, Nairobi, on the fifteenth day of October, 2025, officially declaring a national period of mourning for one of Kenya’s most iconic political figures.