Ida Odinga has reassured Kenyans about the health of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Dr Oburu Odinga, revealing that he is unwell but not seriously ill.
Speaking during the first anniversary commemoration of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday, October 15, Ida explained why Oburu was absent from the gathering.
She told mourners that Oburu had asked her to convey his apologies and explain that he was resting on the advice of his doctors.
Her remarks came after some attendees called out Oburu’s name, seeking to know why he was not present at the memorial.
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Ida Says Oburu Is Unwell but Not Seriously Ill
Addressing the gathering, Ida sought to reassure the public that Oburu was alive and recovering, dismissing fears about the severity of his condition.
“Dr Oburu is not feeling well, but he is not very sick. He is alive,” she said.
She explained that the Siaya senator had been advised by his doctors to slow down and avoid physically demanding engagements as he recuperates.
Ida’s statement offered an update amid public concern over Oburu’s recent absence from some public events.
However, she did not disclose the specific illness affecting him or provide a timeline for his return to public engagements.
Doctors Advised Him to Avoid Political Rallies
Ida said Oburu’s doctors had recommended that he rest rather than attend large and potentially rowdy gatherings.
“The doctors who are looking after him have said that he should go slow and not come to a rowdy rally like this,” she said.
The advice explains why the ODM leader did not attend the anniversary gathering, where family members, political leaders and supporters had assembled to remember Raila.
Although Oburu was absent, Ida conveyed his message to those present and asked them to keep him in their prayers as he continues to recover.
His medical team has not publicly disclosed further details about his condition in the remarks shared at the event.
Ida Urges Mourners to Focus on Raila’s Legacy
Beyond the update on Oburu’s health, Ida urged those attending the memorial to focus on remembering Raila and celebrating his life.
She noted that the gathering was meant to bring together his family, friends and supporters to honour his memory.
Ida also appealed to mourners to approach the commemoration with love and goodwill rather than allowing competing interests to overshadow its purpose.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, while receiving medical treatment in India. The anniversary brought together people who had known him personally and others who supported his political journey.
Ida’s remarks provided reassurance about Oburu’s condition while reminding mourners of the importance of keeping the memorial focused on Raila’s life and legacy.
