Peter Kaluma Asks Murkomen to Declare October 15 a Public Holiday to Honour Raila Odinga

Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament Peter Kaluma has called on Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to declare Thursday October 15 2026 a national public holiday to allow Kenyans to remember the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.

The request comes as the country prepares to mark the first anniversary of Raila’s death. The veteran opposition leader died in India on October 15 2025 while receiving medical treatment at the age of 80.

Kaluma’s appeal seeks to give Kenyans an opportunity to reflect on Raila’s political journey and the role he played in shaping the country’s democratic development.

The legislator reportedly urged Murkomen to set aside the day for remembrance saying Kenyans needed time to honour the former prime minister, popularly known as Baba.

The request comes amid growing calls from Kenyans on social media for October 15 to become an annual public holiday in recognition of Raila’s contribution to the country. However the proposal would require the appropriate government action before the date could officially be designated a public holiday.

In September 2026 TUKO.co.ke reported that Kenyans had renewed calls for October 15 to be declared a holiday. The report noted that the government had previously declared October 17 2025 a one-off public holiday following Raila’s death but had not established October 15 as an annual holiday.

Meanwhile the Orange Democratic Movement and the Odinga family have organised commemorative activities throughout October under the banner “Mwezi wa Baba”. The programme includes gatherings and memorial events intended to celebrate Raila’s life and political legacy.

The main anniversary commemoration is scheduled for October 15 at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo Siaya County.

As the anniversary approaches Kaluma’s reported request adds to the national discussion about how the country should remember one of its most influential political figures.

A public holiday would allow more people to participate in remembrance activities but any official declaration would need confirmation from the government.

For now Kenyans await further announcements as preparations for the first anniversary continue.

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