ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga has confirmed that he is in the United Kingdom for a routine medical check-up, saying his absence will give the party’s leadership an opportunity to demonstrate that its operations do not depend on one individual.
Oburu said he travelled after receiving advice from his doctors and the ODM leadership, with the trip also providing him with time to rest and regain his energy.
“I am currently in the United Kingdom (UK) to undergo a thorough, routine medical checkup,” Oburu said.
“This visit follows the direct advice of both my doctors and the party leadership to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of my health, while allowing me a dedicated period of rest and rejuvenation.”
The ODM leader said he was comfortable stepping away temporarily as the party continues with its activities, describing the period as an important test of the movement’s internal systems and leadership.
“As I attend to these personal health routine checks, that naturally come with advancing years, I view taking this step back as a deliberate, strategic moment for our movement,” he said.
“This is a time of transition, where the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is being tested on its readiness and preparedness on institutionalism. I welcome this test.”
Oburu said there should be no disruption to ODM’s national activities, arguing that the party has enough structures to keep its programmes and daily work moving while he is away.
“Our party possesses the internal mechanisms, the democratic maturity, and the systems to handle day to day activities seamlessly. To ensure that our national operations continue without a moment's interruption,” he said.
He said Deputy Party Leaders Paul Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir would work alongside the National Central Committee and the party secretariat to oversee the party’s affairs during his absence.
“As an elder who has walked this long journey with you, I have absolute faith in their collective leadership, discipline, and vision to steer our movement effectively,” Oburu said.
He further asked ODM officials, members and supporters to give the leadership their full backing and maintain unity as the party continues its work.
“I urge all party members, officials, and the millions of Kenyans who look to us for leadership to accord them the utmost cooperation, stay unified, and remain focused on our shared national goals,” he said.
Oburu also thanked ODM members and supporters for their prayers, goodwill and continued support as he undergoes the routine medical checks in the UK.