Oburu Oginga Takes Dubai Break as Family Refutes Health Concerns
Siaya Senator and ODM Party Leader Dr Oburu Oginga, 82, stepped back from public engagements on Friday, saying he is in good health but needed time to rest after weeks of continuous travel and events.
In a statement on his social media pages, he thanked supporters for their concern and said the pause would allow him to “recollect, recharge, and reset.” His family dismissed speculation about his health. Elijah Oburu, his son and aide, said the senator is not unwell and that the break follows an unusually demanding schedule.
Dr Oginga’s recent itinerary included a central role in the Orange Democratic Movement’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa from 13 to 16 November. He was involved in preparations, public rallies and closed-door meetings before immediately resuming campaign duties.
Soon after returning, he travelled to Kasipul to support ODM’s candidate Boyd Were in the upcoming by-election. He attended rallies, community meetings, and late-night consultation forums as part of the party’s efforts to strengthen its presence in Nyanza amid shifting national political dynamics.
During the campaign, he highlighted the importance of mentoring younger leaders, saying the party’s future depends on youth and women. His emphasis on generational renewal has become a consistent theme in recent weeks.
In Kasipul, he described himself as “a youth leader and Gen Z at heart,” presenting himself as both a senior figure and an advocate for emerging voices within ODM.
The brief pause reflects the pressure facing long-serving politicians in a fast-moving political environment.
Despite his age, Dr Oginga remains active in high-profile campaigns and continues to wield influence within the party. ODM is preparing for several upcoming contests, including the Magarini by-election later this month.
