Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has dismissed widespread reports claiming that ODM leader Raila Odinga is in critical condition, assuring Kenyans that the opposition chief is in good health and recuperating in India.
Speaking to the media, Oburu clarified that his brother was only “slightly indisposed” and is now recovering well. He urged the public to ignore exaggerated claims about Raila’s health circulating in some media outlets and on social platforms.
“I want to tell you that Raila is up and about. Just like any other human being, he was indisposed a little and is now recuperating and resting,” Oburu said.
“He was not in those conditions that have been put in the press. I want to clarify that, and very soon you will see him.”
Oburu’s remarks come amid growing speculation over Raila’s health and his recent absence from public engagements. His confirmation follows a similar assurance from Mama Ida Odinga, who recently dismissed social media rumours alleging that her husband was gravely ill.
During a function in Nyanza, Ida reaffirmed that Raila was fine and actively engaged in his usual activities.
“Someone who is not staying with him knows that Raila is sick, yet I don’t know,” she quipped, calling on Kenyans to stop spreading unverified information.
Raila’s spokesperson, Dennis Onyango, also issued a statement condemning what he termed a “politically motivated misinformation campaign” targeting the ODM leader. Onyango accused certain politicians, including impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and former CS Eugene Wamalwa, of orchestrating the rumours.
He further claimed that some media houses and bloggers have been co-opted into spreading falsehoods, including AI-generated images, to mislead the public.
Oburu maintained that Kenyans should expect to see Raila soon, once he completes his period of rest and recovery in India.
