ODM leader Dr. Oburu Oginga is reportedly resting after a short period of ill health that led to his absence from several key party events.
His failure to attend the crucial ODM retreat in Mombasa on May 4, 2026, sparked widespread speculation about his health.
However, both family members and party officials have clarified that the 82-year-old politician was advised by his doctor to take bed rest due to fatigue and a minor illness.
A senior ODM official confirmed on May 7 that Oburu has since recovered fully and is expected to chair the party’s Central Management Committee meeting next week.
Besides the Mombasa retreat, Oburu also missed the opening of the Raila Odinga Hospital in Nyali on April 27 and a youth congress in Kilifi on April 26.
Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati sought to calm concerns, stating that Oburu is “alright” but had been “committed elsewhere” during the Mombasa retreat.
In a speech delivered on his behalf, Oburu apologized for his absence, citing “unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances.”
Oburu has faced mounting pressure since assuming the role of acting party leader following the death of his brother, Raila Odinga, in late 2025.
