Mashujaa Day 2025: President Ruto Dedicates Celebrations to the Late Raila Odinga

Kenya, 20 October 2025 - For the first time in history, Kitui County hosted Kenya’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, and though the day was meant to celebrate national heroes, one name rose above all others - Raila Amolo Odinga.

At the newly completed Ithookwe Stadium, thousands of Kenyans packed the 10,000-seater arena from dawn, waving flags and singing patriotic songs as they honored the country’s heroes.

President William Ruto opened his address by dedicating the 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations to the late Odinga, calling him “a tireless champion of democracy and a man whose sacrifice defined Kenya’s political journey.”

“Today, we celebrate all our heroes,” President Ruto said.

“But we also pay special tribute to the late Raila Amolo Odinga, whose courage, conviction, and consistency inspired generations of Kenyans to believe in freedom and justice.”

The crowd erupted in applause, echoing the sentiment that has gripped the nation since Odinga's passing, that his life transcended politics and became part of Kenya’s moral story.

A Celebration Turned Tribute

Throughout the ceremony, Raila’s legacy was woven into nearly every artistic performance. Children’s choirs sang patriotic songs intertwined with Redemption Song, the late leader’s favourite. Dancers from the Kitui Creative Arts Group performed a theatrical piece titled “Baba wa Taifa” (Father of the Nation), drawing cheers and tears from the crowd.

“Odinga’s story is part of Kenya’s story,” said one performer.

“We wanted to show that true heroism lives not just in battles fought, but in dreams pursued for others.”

For Kitui, hosting the national celebrations for the first time was a matter of pride. The newly completed stadium became a stage for national unity, a fitting symbol of inclusion and renewal.

Continental Recognition

The event drew distinguished guests from across Africa, underscoring Odinga’s continental stature.

Among them was Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, the chief guest, and the Prime Minister of Mozambique Maria Benvinda Levy, both of whom delivered moving tributes.

President Faye offered his condolences on behalf of the Senegalese people, saying, “I would like to take this opportunity to give my heartfelt condolences from the people of Senegal to the people of Kenya on the passing of Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister and a great leader in the political history of the Republic of Kenya. I express my deep compassion to President Ruto, his family, and the people of Kenya.”

His words, met with a standing ovation, underscored Odinga’s influence beyond Kenya’s borders.

Mozambique’s Prime Minister echoed the same sentiment where on behalf of his government, extended deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the people and government of Kenya and the bereaved family on the demise of the late Rt Hon Raila Odinga.

“With his passing, Kenya and indeed all African nations have lost a true nationalist whose voice will continue to resonate in the struggle for a more just and democratic society.”

Their speeches turned the event into more than a national celebration, it became a pan-African homage to a man whose political courage inspired reformists across the continent.

A Legacy Larger Than Politics

As the Mashujaa Day drums fade today, one truth stood out.

Odinga’s name now rests among Kenya’s greatest heroes.

By dedicating the day to him, President Ruto bridged a historic divide, affirming that Odinga’s struggle for democracy belongs to all Kenyans, not just to one side of the political aisle.

Across the country, from Kitui to Kisumu, citizens marked the day with song, reflection, and quiet pride.

For many, Odinga’s legacy now lives in Kenya’s national spirit, a story of courage, conviction, and endless hope.