Oburu breaks silence amid health concerns after Raila memorial absence

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Dr. Oburu Oginga has broken his silence following online rumours about his health, expressing gratitude to his family, medical staff and party members who marked his birthday on the day of his younger brother Raila Odinga’s first death anniversary.

In a social media post on Thursday, October 15, Oburu reflected on the coincidence of sharing his birthday with the anniversary of Raila’s death, describing the day as a moment of both celebration and grief.

“Today, October 15th, is far more than just a date on the calendar, it is a sacred intersection of life and eternity,” he wrote.

He described the coincidence as a special bond between brothers, saying their connection remained unbroken despite Raila’s death.

“To have been born on this day and for you to have departed on this same date is a divine testament to the invisible thread that binds our souls. Physical separation cannot touch a brotherhood written in the heavens,” he added.

Oburu said he continued to carry his brother’s spirit, describing their relationship as an eternal connection that death could not break.

“As I mark the anniversary of my birth, I carry your spirit within mine bound by a shared journey that transcends time, and an eternal connection that death has no power to break. Rest peacefully in the light, my brother,” he said.

The ODM leader also expressed appreciation to his spouses, Dr. Ann Oburu and Mama Judith Oburu, for their support, as well as staff at The Nairobi Hospital, members of the ODM fraternity and his domestic staff for organising a birthday surprise.

“Your love and presence have made this solemn yet special day truly comforting. May God bless you all abundantly,” Oburu said.

Earlier on Thursday, Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, confirmed that Oburu was alive but unwell, explaining that his doctors had advised him against attending Raila's memorial event.

She added that doctors caring for the ODM leader had advised him to rest rather than attend the gathering.

Oburu has experienced several reported periods of ill health in 2026. He was admitted to The Nairobi Hospital on October 4 after returning from medical treatment in the United Kingdom.

The family had earlier condemned the circulation of reports on the Siaya Senator’s health, describing them as fake news and calling for responsible communication.

In a statement, the family said Oburu was taking time to rest and recover after several weeks of treatment both abroad and locally.

“As he takes time to rest and recuperate after several weeks of treatment both abroad and locally, he wishes that the section of Kenyans who are happily spreading the news will give him time to recover fully, regain his health and energy and then return to active life soon,” the statement read.

The family urged Kenyans to refrain from spreading unverified information about his condition, warning that such reports could cause unnecessary distress to individuals and their relatives.