The government has confirmed that this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations will proceed as planned tomorrow, Monday, October 20, 2025, even as Kenya continues to mourn the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, described as “a great hero and statesman whose indomitable spirit shaped our nation’s journey.”
In a statement released on Saturday, October 18, 2025, by the Executive Office of the President, the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Senator (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura said the national event will take place at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.
“The Government continues to mourn the loss of the Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, a great hero and statesman, whose indomitable spirit shaped our nation’s journey. He will be laid to rest tomorrow at his home in Bondo, and may his soul rest in eternal peace,” the statement reads.
Dr Mwaura reaffirmed that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to Kenya’s heroes despite the national grief.
“In the shadow of this loss, the Government affirms with unwavering resolve that Mashujaa Day, our sacred celebration of Kenya’s heroes, will proceed as planned on Monday, October 20th, 2025, at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County,” he said.
READ ALSO:
Why Kenyan learners are falling out of love with Kiswahili — and how to bring it back
The government noted that Mashujaa Day — a constitutionally enshrined public holiday — remains “a cornerstone of our collective identity, where we gather to salute the sacrifices of those who built our nation.”
Peripheral events such as the Energy Week and the Media Breakfast have been postponed to allow space for reflection and mourning, as directed by President Dr William Samoei Ruto. However, the core national celebrations will unfold in complete honour of Kenya’s heroes, past and present.
Dr Mwaura further called upon all citizens to come together in unity during tomorrow’s celebrations.
“Let us come together as one people to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Rt Hon Raila Amollo Odinga and all our mashujaa. Bring your voices and your stories in unity of resilience to weave a living tribute to a man who taught us to stand tall,” he urged.
He added: “On this day, let us not only mourn but rise in the spirit of Harambee, honouring our fallen hero by recommitting to the dream of a stronger, united Kenya.”
Mashujaa Day, formerly known as Kenyatta Day, is marked annually on October 20th to celebrate the selfless contributions of Kenya’s freedom fighters and nation-builders.
As Kenyans prepare to gather in Kitui tomorrow, tributes continue to pour in for Raila Odinga, whose decades-long political journey helped shape Kenya’s democratic path and whose legacy of courage and resilience will be celebrated across the nation.
“May God bless our great Republic of Kenya,” the statement concluded.
By Joseph Mambili
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
