On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, as news of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's death circulated rapidly across social media platforms, editors at the Nation Media Group (NMG) faced a critical dilemma: balancing the public's demand for immediate information with the journalistic imperative for accuracy. The media house ultimately opted for thorough verification, leading to a delay in their official announcement compared to the swift, often unconfirmed, reports online.

NMG's Editor-in-Chief, Joe Ageyo, addressed the public's questions regarding the delay, stating, "We took all the time we needed to verify the story. We believe in being right rather than merely being first." He emphasised that NMG, as a reputable media institution with over 65 years of history, prioritises trust and credibility, even if it means not being the first to break a story.

Context and Media Ethics

The decision by NMG highlights the ongoing challenge for traditional media in the digital age, where unverified information can spread globally within minutes. The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya stipulates that journalists must be accurate and fair, treating all subjects with respect and dignity. This code also requires weighing the public's right to know against the privacy rights of individuals, particularly in cases of death and tragedy.

While social media was abuzz with unconfirmed reports, NTV, a station under NMG, eventually broke the news a little after 10:00 AM EAT, more than two hours after initial reports began circulating. Their announcement acknowledged the public's queries on social media before confirming Mr. Odinga's passing in India, where he had been undergoing treatment.

Governance and Policy

Kenyan media houses are bound by the Media Act 2007 and the MCK Code of Conduct, which outline ethical principles for journalistic practice. These guidelines aim to ensure professional standards, accuracy, and compassion in reporting, particularly concerning sensitive events like deaths. The MCK has previously issued advisories on reporting violent crime, death, and tragedies, urging media to remain factually accurate and objective, avoiding sensationalism or gender biases.

The NMG's editorial policy, like many reputable news organisations, incorporates these ethical considerations, reserving the right to refuse or cancel advertisements, including death and funeral announcements, that do not comply with their guidelines. This commitment to verification is crucial in maintaining public trust, especially when the consequences of inaccurate reporting can be severe, ranging from defamation lawsuits to a loss of credibility.

Stakeholder Response and Public Reaction

The public's intense interest in Mr. Odinga's health and eventual passing led to a surge in calls to Nation Media Group and inquiries on social media, reflecting a deep reliance on established media for verified information. Some Kenyans speculated that traditional media were withholding the story, awaiting an official government announcement.

President William Ruto officially announced Mr. Odinga's death on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, describing him as a "fearless freedom fighter" and declaring seven days of national mourning. The President also confirmed that Mr. Odinga would be accorded a state funeral.

Evidence and Data

• Date of Death: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• Location of Death: Kochi, India
• Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest during a morning walk
• Age: 80 years
• Official Announcement: President William Ruto, Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• National Mourning Period: Seven days, with flags at half-mast
• Media Council of Kenya Advisory: Issued February 6, 2024, on ethical reporting of deaths and tragedies.

Risks and Implications

The rapid dissemination of unverified information on social media poses a significant risk of misinformation and public confusion. While traditional media may appear slower, their adherence to verification protocols is essential for maintaining accuracy and preventing the spread of false narratives. The public's expectation of instant news, coupled with the need for credible reporting, creates a challenging environment for news organisations.

Timeline and Next Steps

Following President Ruto's announcement, a committee co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga was formed to coordinate funeral arrangements. India offered assistance in repatriating Mr. Odinga's remains, with a high-level Kenyan delegation travelling to India.

On Thursday, October 16, 2025, Mr. Odinga's body arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) aboard a Kenya Airways plane. Public viewing was scheduled to take place at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, after initial plans for Parliament Buildings were altered due to overwhelming crowds.

What to Watch

The nation will continue to observe the ongoing funeral arrangements and the state funeral proceedings for the former Prime Minister. The event underscores the critical role of responsible journalism in providing accurate and verified information during times of national significance.