Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has recently confirmed that the Mashujaa Day celebrations will proceed as planned despite the passing away of Raila Odinga.
In a statement, Mwaura noted that the Mashujaa Day scheduled on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County will take place in accordance with the Public Holidays Act.
He moreover emphasized that the celebrations remain a cornerstone of Kenya’s collective identity to come together and salute the sacrifices of those who built the nation.
Government Maintains Mashujaa Day Will Proceed as Arranged. Photo: Courtesy.
However, Mwaura said peripheral events, such as the energy week and the media breakfast, have been postponed to allow space for reflection and mourning of Raila.
He went on to urge members of the public to turn up in numbers for the Mashujaa Day Celebrations in Ithokwee Stadium.
Mashujaa Day, observed annually on October 20, celebrates and honours Kenyans who played a vital role in the country’s fight for independence from colonial rule.
This year’s event, expected to draw at least 10,000 attendees, will be presided over by President William Ruto at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.
The decentralisation of national celebrations was introduced by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2016.
Under this arrangement, counties host two of the three annual national holidays on a rotational basis, while Nairobi retains one — Independence Day, also known as Jamhuri Day, celebrated on December 12.
Before this change, all national holiday celebrations were traditionally held in Nairobi.
