ODM leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has broken his silence after days of growing speculation over his health and absence from public events, saying he is “very well” and had only briefly visited hospital for a general medical check-up.
In a statement on Tuesday, Oburu said he had seen reports raising questions about his whereabouts and wanted to reassure Kenyans that there was no reason for alarm.
“Thank you for your concerns. I have read the Nation’s digital news and wish to state that I am very well,” he said.
“I had only briefly visited the hospital for a general check up with my doctors and have since returned home,” he added.
Oburu’s remarks come after his absence from public engagements sparked speculation about his health, with conflicting reports suggesting that he was either taking a break, receiving treatment in hospital or recovering at home.
The ODM leader was last seen in public on August 13, when he attended a consultative meeting with Nairobi ODM leaders at the office of the party’s deputy leader.
At the time, Oburu said the meeting focused on party mobilisation, unity and preparations for the 2027 General Election.
“Together, we reviewed ongoing mobilization strategies, strengthened party unity, and charted a clear path forward,” he said in a statement following the meeting.
His continued absence from public events later raised concern, particularly given his role in ODM’s political affairs and ongoing discussions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Reports that Oburu was unwell and receiving medical attention emerged on Tuesday, with some claims stating that he had been hospitalised in Nairobi since August 30.
ODM communication director Philip Etale, however, moved to reassure the public that Oburu was at his Kitusuru residence in Nairobi.
“ODM Leader is currently hosting friends at his Kitusuru residence in Nairobi. He has sent me to greet you all. Wakenya hamjambo,” Etale said.
Oburu also played down concerns surrounding his hospital visit, saying illness was a normal part of human life and should not cause alarm.
“Being sick is a normal human experience and should not alarm anyone,” he said.
The senator further said he would personally inform Kenyans if his condition became serious, insisting that he was transparent about his health.
“The day I am truly sick, I will inform you all, for I am a very transparent person.”
His statement, together with Etale’s update, sought to end the uncertainty surrounding his whereabouts and immediate health status, with the ODM leader confirming that he had returned home after the medical check-up.