Mama Ida Odinga has reassured Kenyans about the health of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga after he missed the first anniversary commemorations of his younger brother, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking during the commemorations in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday, October 15, 2026, Ida apologised on Oburu’s behalf, explaining that he had been advised by his doctors to rest and limit public engagements as he recovers from illness.
Ida addressed concerns surrounding the senator’s absence, insisting that although he was unwell, his condition was not critical.
“I request everybody to listen to what I’m just about to say. Please allow me to convey apologies from Dr Oburu Oginga,” Ida told the gathering.
She went on to reassure mourners and political leaders who had expected the ODM leader to attend the event.
“Dr Oburu is not feeling well, but he is not very sick,” she said.
According to Ida, Oburu’s medical team had advised him against attending large public gatherings while recuperating.
“He is alive, but the doctors who are looking after him have said that he should go slow, not to come to a rally like this,” she added.
Ida further revealed that Oburu had asked her to communicate his message to those attending the anniversary celebrations, saying he was resting and hoped to join them at another gathering.
“This is what he told me to tell you. He has said that he is pumzikaring, so we pray for him so that he can join us another day. That is the message he has told me,” she said.
Oburu’s absence comes amid heightened public interest in his health following reports circulating on social media earlier in October.
On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, his secretariat dismissed claims that the senator had died, assuring the public that he was alive and recovering.
A day later, Oburu also missed the handover and dedication ceremony of Raila’s mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo. His son, Jaoko Oburu, delivered a message on his behalf, indicating that he was following medical advice to rest and limit physical engagements.
Oburu, Raila’s elder brother and the current ODM party leader, had been expected to join the Odinga family, political leaders and supporters in commemorating the former prime minister, who died on October 15, 2025.
The anniversary gathering brought together family members and prominent leaders to honour Raila’s political legacy and reflect on his contribution to Kenya’s political landscape.
Ida’s remarks sought to dispel fears surrounding Oburu’s health, clarifying that his absence was due to medical advice rather than any other reason.
She urged those gathered to pray for the senator as he continues to recover, expressing hope that he would join them at a future event.
