Oburu Oginga travels to UK for medical check-up as ODM moves to calm health concerns

ODM leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has travelled to the United Kingdom for a medical check-up, days after dismissing reports that he had been seriously ill.

The Orange Democratic Movement says the veteran politician is in good spirits and is expected back in Kenya on Saturday.

ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale confirmed the trip, describing it as a routine medical visit.

“Yes, he is in the United Kingdom for a routine check-up. He is doing fine,” Etale said.

The latest development comes just over a week after Oburu's health became the subject of public speculation following a visit to Nairobi Hospital.

Oburu had earlier dismissed hospitalisation reports

On September 1, Oburu pushed back against reports that he had been readmitted to Nairobi Hospital or was receiving treatment for a serious condition.

He said his visit to the hospital had been brief and was for a general check-up with his doctors.

“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.”

Oburu also asked Kenyans not to treat routine medical care as a cause for alarm.

“Being sick is a normal human experience and should not alarm anyone,” he said, adding that he would inform the public if he became seriously unwell.

His comments came after reports about his health circulated widely, prompting concern among ODM supporters and political circles.

He remained active at home

Oburu's public appearances were reduced around the time of the hospital visit, but he did not disappear entirely from political and social engagements.

On September 3, he hosted a delegation from the Senate Energy Committee at his Nairobi residence.

The group included committee chairperson Senator William Kisang, vice-chairperson Beatrice Ogolla and former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo.

The visit was described as an opportunity to check on his wellbeing as well as discuss the committee's work and legislative priorities.

That appearance offered a public glimpse of the senator after he had rejected claims that he was seriously ill.

UK trip adds a new chapter to health questions

The decision to travel abroad for a medical check-up is now likely to renew interest in Oburu's health.

However, ODM has not said that he is receiving treatment for any specific illness.

The party's description remains that of a routine check-up.

There is also no publicly disclosed medical report indicating that Oburu is suffering from a serious condition.

For that reason, the UK trip should not be read as confirmation of the earlier reports about his health.

The senator himself has repeatedly sought to draw a line between seeking medical attention and being seriously ill.

That distinction is particularly important given the speed at which unverified health claims can spread online.

A veteran politician remains under the spotlight

Oburu, 83, is one of the most experienced figures in Kenya's political landscape and the elder brother of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

He currently serves as the ODM party leader and Siaya Senator, placing his health and movements under close political attention.

His leadership of ODM also comes at a sensitive period for the party as it navigates its future following the death of Raila and debates over its political direction.

Yet there is currently no indication from ODM that Oburu's temporary absence from the country will affect the party's day-to-day operations.

Etale said the senator is expected back in Kenya on Saturday.

For now, the party's message is straightforward: Oburu is abroad for a medical check-up and is doing well.

The senator's earlier response to the health rumours also suggests he intends to address serious concerns about his condition himself rather than leave room for speculation.

About the Author

Maureen Onyango is a journalist passionate about storytelling, life coaching and spiritual lessons. She studied at the Kenya Institute of Management and enjoys telling stories that inform, inspire and empower communities.