Use Of Fireworks During Diwali Banned In Kenya After Raila Odinga's Death
The council said the decision was made in recognition of the nation’s deep mourning following Odinga’s passing earlier in the day.
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
The Hindu Council of Kenya (HCK) has called on worshippers across the country to mark this year’s Diwali celebrations with restraint — asking them to refrain from using fireworks and crackers as a gesture of respect for the late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga.
In a statement dated October 15, 2025, and obtained by Viral Tea, the council said the decision was made in recognition of the nation’s deep mourning following Odinga’s passing earlier in the day.
"In light of this solemn moment, the Hindu Council of Kenya respectfully advises all member institutions to observe the forthcoming Diwali festivities with restraint and decorum, tempering celebrations as a mark of tribute to the late leader’s memory.
Signed by HCK National Chairperson Sujata Kotamraju and National General Secretary Surendra Bhatia, the advisory urged Hindus countrywide to approach the festival with “dignity and sensitivity,” acknowledging Odinga’s lifelong contribution to Kenya’s political and social fabric.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the late former Kenyan Prime Minister, Raila Odinga. /NARENDRA MODI
The council further described Raila Odinga as a “leader whose impactful leadership and dedication to the nation left an enduring legacy that commands deep respect and reflection.”
Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Hindu calendar — typically marked with vibrant displays of fireworks, family gatherings, and the lighting of diyas.
However, this year’s observance will take on a more somber tone as Kenyans from all walks of life unite in mourning one of the country’s most influential statesmen.
This directive follows a series of State declarations by President William Ruto after Raila's death, including a seven-day mourning period to be observed nationwide.
"In honour of the life and times of the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and on behalf of the grateful nation, I, William Ruto, under the authority vested in me as the President of the Republic of Kenya, declare that the nation will observe a period of national mourning from today until sunset of the day of his interment," the President said in a statement.
Ruto further declared a halt to all public events, giving the country time to reflect on Odinga’s life and enduring legacy. This has led to several government entities issuing suspensions to activities that were planned for the period now allocated to mourning.
State Department for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development announced on Wednesday, October 15, that the national verification exercise for the NYOTA project applications, which was set to take place on Friday, October 17, across all 290 constituencies, has been postponed.
"The State Department for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development wishes to inform the public, all Principal Secretaries, elected leaders, all applicants of the NYOTA project, and other stakeholders that the national verification exercise scheduled for Friday, October 17, across the 290 Constituencies, has been postponed," a statement from the PS read.
In sports, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has suspended all Premier League matches scheduled during the mourning period in honor of Raila.
Portrait of the late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga. /RAILA ODINGA
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