The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has moved to calm concerns over the health of its party leader, Dr Oburu Oginga, whose prolonged absence from public events has fuelled speculation in recent weeks.

Speaking in a television interview on Monday, October 12, which she later shared on her X account, ODM Secretary General Catherine Omanyo said the Siaya Senator had been unwell but was on the mend. "He was unwell, yes, but he's recuperating well. He's okay," she said, according to People Daily.

Omanyo said Oburu's absence from public functions should not be read as a sign that his condition was getting worse, adding that at his age he needed to rest and follow medical advice. She dismissed reports to the contrary as yellow journalism.

Week of rumours

The update follows a turbulent week. On October 6, the Office of the ODM Party Leader condemned online claims about Oburu's death as "malicious, unfounded fake news and propaganda", saying he was safe, in good spirits and following doctors' instructions to rest and limit strenuous activity. The statement said he had been preparing a speech for the handover of Raila Odinga's mausoleum when the claims surfaced.

The same day, ODM chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga said she had visited him. "My PL Dr Oburu is recovering steadily," she said, adding that he was in high spirits. Party communications director Philip Etale said Oburu had gone to Nairobi Hospital for a routine check-up and was stable.

However, Capital FM reported that two close aides confirmed he had been moved to the hospital's intensive care unit, without giving details of his condition. The party has not publicly disclosed the nature of his illness.

Oburu's son, Jaoko Oburu, and government communications strategist Dennis Itumbi also criticised those spreading the death claims, with Itumbi urging the public to "ignore the fake news".

Months of health concerns

Oburu, who turns 84 on October 15, was hospitalised in Nairobi in August and later discharged. In September he travelled to the United Kingdom for a medical check-up. His sister, Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, told the Nation at the time that he had improved but was awaiting doctors' clearance before returning home.

Before travelling, Oburu had promised transparency about his health. "As a leader, I can't hide anything concerning my health, and when I'm sick, all of Kenya will know," he said, according to the Nation.

Leadership at a crucial time

Oburu took over as ODM leader after the death of his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, on October 15, 2025. His absence comes as the party prepares for Raila's first anniversary memorial in Bondo this Thursday and debates its position ahead of the 2027 General Election, including its relationship with President William Ruto under the broad-based arrangement.

Etale has indicated that Oburu will not be actively involved in politics for the next few weeks as he continues to recover.