Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has moved to clear the air over widespread rumors about the health of his younger brother, Raila Odinga, assuring Kenyans that the ODM leader is recuperating and not critically ill as alleged.
Speaking in Ugunja, Siaya County, Oburu confirmed that the former prime minister had indeed been unwell but insisted that his condition had been exaggerated by political detractors and misinformation circulating online.
“There have been many rumors—that he is very sick, that he is dying, or that he is completely out. I want to tell you that he is out and about. He was indisposed for a short while, but he is now recuperating and resting,” Oburu said.
He clarified that Raila is currently in India, where he travelled for medical attention, and that his condition is steadily improving. Oburu dismissed claims that the opposition leader was on life support or secretly hospitalized abroad, terming them “pure propaganda.”
“He was not in the conditions alleged. Some people are spreading lies for political reasons. Raila is fine, and very soon he will be back home,” he added.
Family and party reassurances
Oburu’s remarks come after days of growing speculation about Raila’s health and whereabouts, with conflicting reports suggesting that he was admitted to hospitals in Dubai or the United States.
Earlier, Ida Odinga, Raila’s wife, also dismissed reports claiming that her husband was critically ill, urging the public to disregard rumors from unreliable sources.
The ODM Party had similarly assured supporters that the former prime minister was in good health and had simply taken time off to rest following a busy political schedule.
Political calm
Raila’s absence had stirred unease among his supporters, with some expressing concern on social media about the lack of official communication. Oburu’s public statement appears aimed at restoring confidence within ODM and calming public anxiety.
Political analysts say the clarification was timely, coming at a moment when misinformation about the veteran opposition leader’s condition threatened to fuel unnecessary panic.
On the mend
According to Oburu, Raila is responding well to treatment and could soon return to Kenya to resume his public and political engagements.
“He is improving every day, and we thank God for that. Kenyans should stop speculating and pray for him instead,” he said.
The assurance from Raila’s elder brother puts to rest swirling rumors that have dominated political and social discussions over the past week.
