Wetang’ula outlines National Assembly’s plan to honour Raila Odinga

Paulette Mboga 15th October, 2025 03:57 PM

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has announced a series of directions outlining how the House will honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The directives follow President William Ruto’s proclamation of national mourning and are intended to ensure the House pays a proper tribute to Raila, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

Also watch: Parliament adjourns sitting following Raila’s death

Speaker Wetang’ula said the National Assembly will dedicate a full day to eulogise Raila Odinga, describing him as a national hero whose contribution to Kenya’s democracy and governance was unmatched.

He outlined three key decisions that the National Assembly will observe in respect to Raila’s memory.

Special sitting and extended hours

Wetang’ula first announced that the current House session had been adjourned until tomorrow at 10:00 am. He said the entire sitting will be dedicated to tributes in honour of the late leader.

“We will have a full day of eulogies to the right Honourable Raila Odinga, starting from 10:00 am to midnight, to allow everyone to speak,” he said.

To allow all members sufficient time to pay their respects, Wetang’ula further extended the sitting hours from the usual 2:30 pm to midnight. He explained that this will enable both sides of the political divide to have their voices heard during the special session.

Also watch: Some Kenyans’ views on Raila’s death

The Speaker also directed that all tributes made in the House be recorded through an exceptional motion. This record, he said, will form part of the National Assembly’s official tribute to Raila Odinga and will be preserved in the House archives.

Wetang’ula also gave guidance on the dress code for the special sitting, urging members to attend in mourning colours.

“It is advised that you come in a sombre attire. I advise that we dress in black. Those who don’t have black to go buy this afternoon,” he told MPs.

He added that the majority and minority leaders of the National Assembly will form part of the delegation travelling to Mumbai, India, to accompany Raila’s body back home.

“Your leadership, the majority and minority leaders are part of the delegation that is leaving in the next one hour to Mumbai, where they will join the larger delegation, including some cabinet secretaries and Mama Ida Odinga to bring back the remains of our fallen hero,” Wetang’ula said.