NAIROBI, Kenya – Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has called for action against misinformation after reports falsely claiming that Siaya Senator and ODM leader Oburu Oginga had died circulated widely online.
Speaking in the Senate on Wednesday, Sifuna cited the reports about his colleague while urging the government to address the spread of unverified information.
“Yesterday, Speaker, you know there was very alarming information about one of our colleagues, the Honourable Senator for Siaya. We continue to pray that he is okay and that he gets well soon and resumes his duties,” Sifuna said.
He questioned the lack of action to curb the spread of the reports.
“But I have not seen any action being taken to stop the spread of misinformation, Honourable Speaker,” Sifuna added.
Oburu’s Office Dismisses Death Reports
The reports emerged on Tuesday, prompting Oburu’s office to issue a statement dismissing claims that the ODM leader had died.
The Oburu Oginga Secretariat said the senator was “well, safe, and in good spirits” and urged the public to rely on official communication concerning his health.
The office said Oburu had been advised by doctors to take rest and limit heavy physical engagements, while remaining engaged in key party and national matters.
ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga also sought to reassure the public after visiting Oburu on Tuesday evening.
“My PL Dr Oburu is recovering steadily. I was with him this evening and he is in high spirits. We continue to pray for his full recovery,” Wanga said.
ODM communications director Philip Etale had earlier said Oburu had visited Nairobi Hospital for a check-up and would temporarily scale back his political engagements while recovering.
Oburu Misses Raila Mausoleum Ceremony
Oburu was also absent on Wednesday from the handover and dedication ceremony of the Raila Odinga mausoleum at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
Raila Odinga’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, confirmed that Oburu was unable to attend because he was unwell.
She asked Kenyans to continue praying for his recovery and expressed hope that he would soon be able to rejoin the family and the public.
The senator’s absence came amid continued public interest in his health following his recent medical attention and the subsequent reports circulating online.
Sifuna Raises Misinformation Concern
Sifuna’s remarks placed the Oburu reports within a wider debate over the spread of misinformation, particularly through social media and digital platforms.
The Nairobi senator said the reports concerning his colleague demonstrated the potential consequences of unverified information being circulated about public figures.
Oburu’s office, meanwhile, has urged Kenyans to disregard the death reports and rely on official updates as the senator continues his recovery.
Wanga similarly said Oburu was recovering steadily and remained in high spirits following her visit.
