Watch: Oburu Odinga Sparks Laughter After Reciting Islamic Phrases in Public Speech

A video of Kenyan politician Oburu Odinga speaking in what sounded like Islamic phrases during a public address has gone viral, drawing laughter from the crowd and prompting a wave of reactions on social media.

In the clip circulating widely online, the veteran politician begins his remarks by reciting a series of phrases commonly associated with Islamic prayers.

His delivery and pronunciation appeared to catch the attention of the audience, leading to bursts of laughter from those present.

During the speech, Oburu Odinga said:

“Bismilahi Rahmani Rahim, Alhamdhulilaih Rabii Alhamin Subhnahu wa taa'la.”

The phrases he attempted to recite are widely recognized Arabic expressions used by Muslims when beginning speeches or prayers.

The moment quickly gained traction on platforms such as TikTok, where users flooded the comment section with reactions ranging from humorous remarks to explanations of the meaning behind the words.

Several social media users pointed out that the phrases he mentioned closely resemble common Islamic expressions used in religious contexts.

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One commenter, @ameree, explained the meaning of the phrases and noted that the message itself was correct.

“Hajakosea… ameanza kwa jina la Mwenyezi Mungu mwingi wa rehema mwenye kurehemu (Bismillah Rahmani Rahim). Alhamdulillahi Rabbi alamin – Sifa zote njema ni za Allah, Mola wa walimwengu wote. Subhanahu wa ta’ala – Ametakasika na ametukuka,” the user wrote.

Another user, @CS Issa Sheikh Ali (ABA IYESA), also shared an explanation, stating that the phrases were meant to praise God.

“He is ok. He said he starts with the name of Allah most gracious and most merciful, then praise be to the Lord of the world, and again praise be to the Lord, the one above everything,” the comment read.

While some users focused on explaining the meaning of the phrases, others reacted humorously to the delivery of the speech.

One TikTok user, @Ramah_@Luvandale, joked that the moment deserved recognition in entertainment awards.

“Naliawambia huyu akikosa Pulse Award this year tunaandamana,” the user wrote alongside laughing emojis.

Another commenter, @My_tommorow25, referenced Oburu’s brother, veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga, suggesting that the talent had been hidden for years.

“Raila alificha talent ya brother yake walai,” the comment read.

Meanwhile, @agwati junior humorously suggested that the politician should be recognized in the comedy category.

“Crown this man the best comedian of the year,” the user wrote.

The video has continued to circulate widely across social media platforms, where it has generated thousands of views, shares, and reactions.

Many users appeared amused by the moment, while others focused on clarifying the religious phrases mentioned in the speech.

The phrase “Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim” is commonly translated as “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,” and is often recited at the beginning of speeches, prayers, and daily activities by Muslims.