President William Ruto has announced that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will be accorded a state funeral, complete with military honors and all attendant state protocols.

As a mark of respect, the flag of the Republic of Kenya will be flown at half-mast at State House, all Kenyan diplomatic missions, public buildings, and grounds, as well as at all military bases, posts, and stations, and on all naval vessels of the Republic of Kenya. This gesture will be observed throughout the entire territory of the Republic from today until the day of Raila Odinga’s interment.

 

In addition, the nation will observe a period of national mourning from today until sunset on the day of his interment, as a tribute to his legacy and contributions to the country.

This state funeral and period of mourning underscore the significant impact Raila Odinga had on Kenyan politics and society.

Ruto hailed him as a once-in-a-generation leader — a giant in Kenya’s democratic landscape and a true statesman.

Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister of Kenya, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at an Ayurvedic eye hospital and research center in Koothattukulam, Ernakulam district, Kerala.

He died at 80 years old.

According to reports, he suffered cardiac failure during his morning walk on the hospital campus.