Mashujaa Day celebrations to proceed despite national mourning - Gov't

The government has confirmed that this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations will proceed as scheduled on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, even as the nation continues to mourn the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a statement issued by Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura, the State described the late Odinga as “a great hero and statesman, whose indomitable spirit shaped our nation's journey,” noting that he will be laid to rest on Sunday at his Bondo home.

Mwaura said that while the country remains in mourning, the government “affirms with unwavering resolve that Mashujaa Day, our sacred celebration of Kenya's heroes, a constitutionally enshrined public holiday under the Public Holidays Act and aligned with Article 9(3) of the Constitution of Kenya (2010), will proceedas planned on Monday, October 20th, 2025, at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.”

He emphasized that the day remains “a cornerstone of our collective identity, where we gather to salute the sacrifices of those who built our nation.”

However, Mwaura added that some auxiliary events linked to the national holiday have been postponed.

“While peripheral events, such as Energy Week and the Media Breakfast, have been respectfully postponed to allow space for reflection and mourning as directed by His Excellency the President Dr. William Samoei Ruto, the core celebrations will unfold in full honor of our heroes, past and present,” he stated.

The government spokesman called on Kenyans across the country to show up in large numbers for the celebrations, saying it will also serve as a tribute to the late Odinga.

“The government calls upon all Kenyans to turn out in great numbers for Mashujaa Day 2025. Let us come together as one people to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga and all our mashujaa,” stated Mwaura.

“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, honoring our fallen hero by recommitting to the dream of a stronger, united Kenya.”