Oburu Oginga breaks silence on UK medical trip, reveals who will run ODM in his absence

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader and Siaya Senator, Oburu Oginga, has addressed his recent silence regarding his trip to the United Kingdom. The senator revealed that he is undergoing a routine medical check-up, assuring party supporters that he is doing well. Oginga traveled to the UK on the advice of his doctors and the party leadership for a thorough evaluation of his health and a period of rest and rejuvenation.

This medical trip follows the direct recommendation from his doctors and the party leadership to ensure a comprehensive health assessment. Speaking to ODM members, supporters, and the public on September 10, 2026, Oginga said the medical visit was a routine check-up associated with advancing age. In his absence, Oginga expressed confidence in ODM's strong structures to continue functioning without disruption.

He viewed his step back as a strategic move to test the party’s institutional readiness. Oginga specifically pointed to Deputy Party Leaders Paul Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, the Governors of Kisii and Mombasa counties respectively, as key figures who would help manage the party's affairs during his absence. Oginga expressed his faith in the deputy leaders, the National Central Committee, and the party secretariat to steer ODM effectively.

He urged ODM members and officials to remain united, cooperate with the leaders overseeing the party's affairs, and stay focused on shared national goals, especially in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election.