The 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations, held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, were largely dedicated to honouring the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. President William Ruto led the nation in paying tribute to Odinga, who died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, and was laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Bondo, Siaya County.

President Ruto described Odinga as a "towering patriot, resolute statesman, and a quintessential hero," dedicating the Mashujaa Day celebrations to his memory. He posthumously conferred upon Odinga the country's highest civilian honour, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.), First Class. The President urged Kenyans to emulate the ideals Odinga championed, advocating for a Kenya free of negative ethnicity.

Historical and Political Context

Mashujaa Day, meaning 'Heroes' Day' in Swahili, is a national public holiday observed annually on October 20th. It honours all Kenyans who contributed to the struggle for independence and those who have positively impacted post-independence Kenya. The holiday was formerly known as Kenyatta Day, commemorating the detention of the 'Kapenguria Six,' including Kenya's first President Jomo Kenyatta, in 1952.

The 2010 Constitution renamed Kenyatta Day to Mashujaa Day, broadening its scope to recognise a wider array of national heroes. This year's commemoration took on added significance due to Odinga's recent passing, marking the end of an era for a figure who remained central to Kenyan politics for over four decades.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

During the Kitui celebrations, schoolchildren performed choreographed tributes, forming the words "Shujaa Raila" and singing "Raila wetu lala salama" (Our Raila, rest in peace). A video montage of Odinga's life, featuring his favourite song "Jamaica Farewell" by Harry Belafonte, was also played. These performances underscored Odinga's enduring legacy as a champion of democracy and social justice.

President Ruto highlighted Odinga's political journey as one marked by courage, selflessness, and an unwavering love for the country, noting his ability to prioritise national cohesion over personal ambition. This was evident in his decision to cooperate with political rivals, including the historic 'handshake' with former President Uhuru Kenyatta and a recent pact with President Ruto.

Evidence/Data Box

• Date of Mashujaa Day 2025: Monday, October 20, 2025
• Location of Main Celebrations: Ithookwe Stadium, Kitui County
• Raila Odinga's Passing: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• Raila Odinga's Burial: Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Bondo, Siaya County
• Posthumous Honour: Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (C.G.H.), First Class

Risks and Implications

Odinga's death has significantly altered Kenya's political landscape, raising questions about the future of his Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party. Discussions about leadership changes and potential alliances have emerged within the ODM, with some leaders advocating for unity and others hinting at a different political direction. The political pact signed between President Ruto and Odinga earlier in 2025, aimed at national stability, also faces scrutiny in the wake of Odinga's demise.

Unknowns and Controversies

While Odinga received full military honours and a State funeral, there was initial resistance within government circles to accord him such a send-off, given he never served as president. However, his significant influence in shaping the Kenyan state ultimately led to the decision to grant him these honours. The long-term implications of his absence on Kenya's political alliances and the 2027 general elections remain uncertain.

What to Watch

The political dynamics within the ODM party will be crucial to observe, particularly regarding succession and potential coalition participation. The future of the political pact between the government and Odinga's party will also be a key area of focus. Furthermore, how the nation navigates the post-Raila era and continues to cultivate national interest politics will be closely watched.