Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has officially declared Wednesday, May 27, a public holiday to allow Kenyans to mark the Eid-ul-Adha celebrations.
The announcement was made on Monday, May 25, through a Special Gazette Notice issued by the Interior Cabinet Secretary under the powers granted to him by the Public Holidays Act.
The declaration clears the way for Muslims across the country to observe one of the most important religious festivals in the Islamic calendar.
Kenyans to enjoy public holiday on May 27 after government announcement. Photo: Courtesy.
According to the notice, the public holiday will be observed nationwide, with government offices, learning institutions, and many businesses expected to remain closed for the day as part of the official celebrations.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated by Muslims worldwide to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
The celebration is marked by prayers, charitable giving, family gatherings, and the sharing of meals with relatives, friends, and those in need.
The holiday is considered one of the holiest events in Islam and is observed annually during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, coinciding with the pilgrimage season of Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
Murkomen’s announcement comes as Muslim faithful across Kenya prepare for the celebrations, with mosques and religious leaders expected to organise special prayers and community events in various parts of the country.
Public holidays linked to major religious celebrations are recognised under Kenyan law and are observed nationally to allow citizens from different faiths to participate in important cultural and religious activities.
