Ruto to consider gazetting Diwali as a public holiday

President William Ruto hosts Diwali celebrations at State House, Nairobi on October 30, 2024. [PCS]

President William Ruto has suggested that Diwali could soon be gazetted as a public holiday.

Speaking during the Diwali celebrations held at State House, Nairobi, Ruto revealed he has received many requests to make the festival an official holiday.

"I will ensure this goes through the necessary government process. The Speaker of the National Assembly is present, and it will proceed to Parliament. By the next Diwali, we will have made a decision," said Ruto.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, also in attendance, voiced his support, saying he was ready to table the issue in Parliament.

"Your Excellency, if you choose to designate a holiday for the Hindu community, I will quickly put it to a vote in Parliament," he said.

A Hindu leader at the event noted the significance of a public holiday, saying, "We feel that being part of the culture of this country, we want to celebrate Diwali with all Kenyans. A Hindu public holiday would make us feel fully included in this nation."

This is the first Diwali celebration hosted at State House.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, officially begins on Friday, November 1, and continues through Saturday, November 2, 2024.

The festival, celebrated widely in the Hindu community, also holds variations in other Indian religions.