Oburu family cautions against spread of 'fake news' regarding his health

The family of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Oginga has cautioned Kenyans against spreading false reports about his health following renewed online rumours.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the family said Oburu was recuperating after weeks of treatment both locally and abroad, urging the public to allow him time to recover before returning to active public life.

The family, through ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale, said the circulation of the reports had caused distress, with Oburu himself also disturbed by the claims.

"The family of the ODM Party Leader Sen. (Dr) Oburu Oginga is devastated by the continued spreading of fake news relating to his health...Daktari Oburu is equally disturbed by the fake news. Daktari Oburu is equally disturbed by the fake news,” Etale said in the statement.

The family acknowledged the public’s right to freedom of expression but called for responsible communication, urging Kenyans to respect the privacy and well-being of others.

“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 further urged the public to refrain from circulating unverified information, warning against the distress such reports could cause to individuals and their families.

“Let us refrain from spreading false information aimed at causing agony and pain to others,” read the statement.

The latest statement follows an earlier denial by the ODM secretariat on October 6, after claims about Oburu’s health circulated on social media.

At the time, the Office of the ODM Party Leader described the reports as “malicious, unfounded fake news and propaganda,” assuring the public that Oburu was safe and in good spirits.

The secretariat also said Oburu was observing doctors’ instructions to rest and limit strenuous engagements while remaining updated on party and national affairs.