The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has strongly refuted claims that its party leader, Raila Odinga, has been hospitalised or is suffering from an undisclosed illness. The party dismissed the reports as politically motivated falsehoods aimed at misleading Kenyans.

Clarification from Raila’s Office

In a detailed statement issued on Sunday morning, Raila’s office confirmed that the veteran politician had indeed travelled abroad on Friday evening, but clarified that his trip had nothing to do with medical reasons.

“Hon. Raila travelled out of the country on Friday evening — one of many trips he has made this year, and certainly not the last,” the statement read in part.

It continued: “He definitely did not travel to Europe as reported by bloggers and broadcast by some media houses. He is not indisposed, as prayed for by his frustrated opponents.”

The ODM Secretariat criticised sections of the media and online commentators who it said had chosen to sensationalise the matter instead of verifying facts.

Political Motives Behind the Rumours

According to the statement, the rumours originated from political actors within the opposition, allegedly led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The party accused this group of spreading misinformation for political mileage

ODM described the reports as “malicious fabrications” meant to distract the public from key national issues.

“It is unfortunate that political desperation has reached the level where opponents resort to spreading falsehoods about someone’s health. These tactics are not only unethical but also inhumane,” the statement read.

The party further accused a few mainstream media houses of relying on unverified online content — including AI-generated images — and airing it as investigative reporting.

Raila’s Recent Absence Explained

Raila, 80, has maintained a busy schedule throughout 2024, particularly with his campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship. His last public appearance was in late September during a leadership meeting in Addis Ababa.

However, his absence from public view over the past two weeks sparked widespread speculation about his whereabouts. On Friday, The Star newspaper ran a front-page story titled “Where Is Raila?”, further fuelling the rumours.

ODM clarified that the former Prime Minister remains active and that his current trip abroad is part of his regular travel routine.

ODM’s 20th Anniversary Postponement

The timing of Raila’s absence coincided with the postponement of ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations, which were initially set for 10–12 October in Mombasa. The event has now been rescheduled to 14–16 November to allow for wider county participation.

“After careful consideration, the Party Leader graciously agreed to our request to expand the programme and ensure inclusivity by engaging with more counties before converging in Mombasa for the grand celebrations,” the party announced.

READ MORE: Raila Reveals Future Plans After AUC Loss

ODM insisted that the postponement had no link to Raila’s personal schedule or health.

Mixed Reactions from Kenyans Online

The statement sparked a flurry of reactions online. Many Kenyans took to social media to defend Raila, accusing political rivals of spreading fake news.

One X user wrote, “Stop spreading panic — Raila is fine. This is political desperation at its peak.”
Another commented, “If he’s healthy, why the silence? We deserve transparency, not spin.”

Supporters in Kisumu, Nairobi, and Mombasa also voiced confidence in the ODM leader’s wellbeing. “Baba has always been transparent with us. We know when he’s unwell — this is pure propaganda,” one supporter said outside ODM headquarters.

ODM’s Final Word

The party concluded by assuring Kenyans that any genuine health matter involving Raila Odinga would be communicated officially.

“Raila Odinga has always been open with the public. When he was unwell in the past, it was never hidden. We urge Kenyans to treat these current rumours with the contempt they deserve,” the statement said.

As speculation continues online, Raila’s allies insist that the ODM leader is simply taking time off his busy schedule — preparing for both the party’s anniversary celebrations and his ongoing continental engagements.