The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has condemned the continued spread of rumours about party leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga’s health, saying the reports have caused distress to his family and affected him personally.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale said the senator was disturbed by the circulation of what the party described as false information about his condition.
The party appealed to Kenyans to stop sharing unverified claims and allow the veteran politician time to recover.
ODM Says Oburu Oginga Is Recovering
According to Etale, Oburu has been recuperating after several weeks of treatment both locally and abroad.
The party said he needed time to regain his strength and energy before returning to active public life. However, the statement did not disclose the nature of his illness or provide a specific date for his full return to public engagements.
Etale urged members of the public to exercise responsibility when sharing information, noting that freedom of expression should go hand in hand with respect for other people’s privacy and well-being.
Family Distressed by Social Media Reports
ODM said the continued circulation of health rumours had devastated the senator’s family, adding to the strain during his recovery.
The party also expressed concern over people sharing unverified information about the politician, warning that such reports could cause unnecessary pain to him and those close to him.
The statement urged Kenyans to avoid spreading information that has not been confirmed through reliable sources.
ODM Had Earlier Dismissed Claims About His Health
The latest response follows an earlier statement from Oburu’s office on October 6, when his secretariat dismissed online claims about his health as false and malicious.
At the time, the office said the senator was safe, in good spirits and following doctors’ advice to rest and limit strenuous public engagements.
ODM Secretary General Catherine Omanyo also dismissed speculation about his condition on October 13, saying he was doing well and was expected to leave hospital either that day or the following day.
What Happens Next?
The party has asked Kenyans to give Oburu time to recover without subjecting him and his family to further distress.
While ODM has provided updates about his recovery, it has not publicly disclosed detailed medical information or confirmed when he will resume his usual schedule of public engagements.
For now, the party’s message is that the public should rely on verified updates rather than speculation as the senator continues his recovery.
