Raila Odinga Death: Ruto Declares 7 Days Of National Mourning
The Head of State added that he has suspended all his official national duties and public appearances to focus on the period of mourning.
Marvin Chege 
President William Ruto has declared a seven-day period of national mourning following the passing of former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga.
"I have declared a seven-day period of national mourning," Ruto said during an address at State House on Wednesday, October 15.
Adding "during which the national flag shall fly half-mast across the Republic of Kenya and in all our missions abroad."
The Head of State added that he has suspended all his official national duties and public appearances to focus on the period of mourning.
The late Raila Odinga during a past address. /CITIZEN DIGITAL
He also announced that the late Raila Odinga will be accorded a full state burial in recognition of his immense contribution to the nation.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Raila’s elder brother, Oburu Odinga, have been appointed to co-chair the national funeral committee that will oversee the planning and coordination of the burial arrangements.
"The government of India, at the request of Kenya, has offered to facilitate the repatriation of the remains of our former Prime Minister Raila Odinga," Ruto added.
President Ruto mourned Raila Odinga as one of Africa’s most iconic leaders — a champion of democracy, governance, and justice. He said Odinga’s name will remain a permanent part of Kenya’s history, symbolizing struggle, sacrifice, courage, and the nation’s continuous quest for progress.
Ruto praised Odinga as a true patriot who devoted his life to fighting for justice and equality, noting that his principles and vision went far beyond political boundaries.
“In his passing, we have lost a patriot of uncommon courage, a pan-Africanist, a unifier who sought peace and unity above power and self-gain; an unceasing servant of the people who gave his all for the promise of a better Kenya,” the President mourned.
Earlier, India’s Mathrubhumi newspaper reported that Raila Odinga, who had been receiving treatment in the southern city of Kochi, suffered a cardiac arrest on Wednesday morning at an Ayurvedic wellness centre.
According to the publication, medical staff at the facility immediately administered CPR before transferring him to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was declared dead at approximately 9:52 a.m. local time.
During an ODM function on Thursday, October 9, his brother, Oburu Odinga, confirmed that Raila was unwell and receiving medical care, but assured supporters that he was steadily recovering.
He, however, refuted claims that the former Prime Minister was in critical condition, explaining that Odinga was only experiencing a minor ailment that prompted him to seek treatment overseas.
President William Ruto and the late Raila Odinga during a past meeting at State House. /PCS
