Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader and Siaya Senator Dr Oburu Oginga has broken his silence amid online speculation about his health, expressing gratitude to his family, medical team and party members for their support as he continues to recover.
In a social media post on Thursday, October 15, Oburu reflected on the emotional significance of his birthday coinciding with the first anniversary of the death of his younger brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Describing the day as a meeting point between celebration and grief, the veteran politician said the shared date held a special meaning for their brotherhood, which he believes remains unbroken despite Raila’s death.
“Today, October 15th, is far more than just a date on the calendar; it is a sacred intersection of life and eternity,” Oburu wrote.
He described the coincidence of his birth and his brother’s death as a profound connection, saying their bond transcended physical separation.
“To have been born on this day and for you to have departed on this same date is a divine testament to the invisible thread that binds our souls. Physical separation cannot touch a brotherhood written in the heavens,” he added.
Oburu said he continued to carry Raila’s spirit with him, describing their relationship as an enduring bond that death could not break.
“As I mark the anniversary of my birth, I carry your spirit within mine, bound by a shared journey that transcends time, and an eternal connection that death has no power to break. Rest peacefully in the light, my brother,” he said.
The ODM leader also thanked his spouses, Dr Ann Oburu and Mama Judith Oburu, for their support, alongside medical staff at The Nairobi Hospital, ODM members and his domestic staff, who organised a surprise birthday celebration.
“Your love and presence have made this solemn yet special day truly comforting. May God bless you all abundantly,” he said.
Oburu’s message came hours after Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, addressed concerns about the senator’s health, confirming that he was alive but unwell.
Ida said Oburu’s doctors had advised him to rest rather than attend the memorial event marking the first anniversary of Raila’s death.
The senator has reportedly experienced several periods of ill health in 2026. He was admitted to The Nairobi Hospital on October 4 after returning from medical treatment in the United Kingdom.
His family had previously condemned the circulation of unverified reports about his condition, describing them as fake news and urging Kenyans to exercise restraint when discussing his health.
In an earlier statement, the family said Oburu was taking time to rest and recover after several weeks of treatment both abroad and in Kenya.
The family appealed to members of the public to allow the Siaya senator sufficient time to recuperate, regain his strength and return to his regular activities when ready.
It also warned that spreading unverified information about his condition could cause unnecessary distress to him and his relatives.
