The secretariat of ODM party leader and Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that the veteran politician has died, describing them as “malicious propaganda and fake news.”
In a communiqué released moments ago, the Office of the Party Leader said Oburu is “well, safe, and in good spirits,” while urging the public and media to disregard the reports and rely on official communication channels.
The statement came after blogger Maverick Aoko claimed on social media that Oburu had died. Her post followed an earlier update by ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale indicating that the senator was in good health after visiting Nairobi Hospital for a routine check-up.
Oburu’s son, Jaoko Oburu Odinga, subsequently responded to Aoko, describing her post announcing his father’s alleged death as “careless.”
Aoko, however, hit back at Jaoko, questioning why he had not directly denied the claim.
“You are not denying that he is dead. My condolences senior advisor. Wacha youth leader apumzike. Wajaluo pia wapate new beginning yawa, tho!” Aoko replied.
The latest statement from Oburu’s secretariat now offers a direct denial, saying the senator was actively engaged in preparations for the official speech for the handover ceremony at the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi when the rumours were being circulated.
The secretariat said Oburu is currently observing doctors’ instructions to take a forced rest and limit heavy physical engagements but remains mentally alert and involved in key party and national matters.
It further condemned the spread of what it called misinformation and cyberbullying, saying the matter would be handled through legal channels.
“We urge members of the public and the media to ignore the sensationalist fabrications being peddled by attention-seeking bloggers and instead rely on official communication channels,” the statement said.
