KISUMU, Kenya — Oburu Oginga has resurfaced after nearly two weeks away from the public eye, with the Orange Democratic Movement dismissing claims that he was unwell or had travelled abroad for treatment.
In a video shared on social media on Friday, May 8, the Siaya Senator assured supporters that he was in good health and spending time in Kisumu.
“Thank you for your concerns about my whereabouts. I am here in Kisumu, up and about, playing golf, and I want to wish all of you a very happy weekend,” Oburu said in the clip.
The statement came hours after ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale addressed journalists in Nairobi and dismissed reports circulating online that the veteran politician had been flown out of the country for specialised medical treatment.
Etale said Oburu remained active in party affairs and was expected to attend a public function on Saturday.
“We have seen some local dailies questioning the whereabouts of our party leader. I have his permission to state that he is okay and fine,” Etale said.
“The reports that he is unwell or missing are not true. He is okay, and tomorrow you will see him at the alma mater of his late father speaking and engaging with the public,” he added.
Oburu’s absence from several recent political engagements, including the ODM retreat in Mombasa, had fuelled speculation over his health and role within the party.
The developments come at a time when ODM is facing internal divisions over its political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
One faction aligned with Oburu has supported the broad-based arrangement between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance led by President William Ruto.
Another faction, associated with James Orengo and former ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, has opposed backing Ruto’s expected re-election bid and called for ODM to maintain an independent political path.
The party is also divided over the implementation of the 10-point Memorandum of Understanding signed between former ODM leader Raila Odinga and President Ruto. Critics within the party argue that the government has failed to fully implement key commitments contained in the agreement.
