“Up and Grateful!”: Oburu Oginga Breaks Silence After Absence Sparks Speculation

By Gedion Nzyoki -

• The Orange Democratic Movement Party leader  has resurfaced after days of public absence that sparked widespread political speculation
• The Orange Democratic Movement leadership has moved to dismiss concerns over the veteran politician’s health and influence within the party
• ODM says the party is undergoing a strategic transition aimed at empowering a new generation of leaders ahead of future political engagements

The Orange Democratic Movement party leader Oburu Oginga, has resurfaced after days of absence from the public eye that had sparked speculation over his health and political role within the party.

Taking to his official X account on Friday evening, Oburu shared photos and a video of himself playing golf, accompanied by the caption: “Up and grateful!”

His reappearance came hours after both his office and the ODM party dismissed reports circulating in sections of the local media alleging that the veteran politician was unwell or losing influence within the party.

In a statement released Friday, the Communications Department in Oburu’s office termed the reports “malicious” and “entirely divorced from the truth.”

The statement reassured ODM supporters and the public that the party leader remains in good health and continues to offer leadership to the movement.

“We wish to reassure our supporters, stakeholders, and the general public that the Party Leader is in excellent health, sound mind, and continues to provide steady leadership to our movement,” the statement read.

According to the office, Oburu’s reduced public appearances are part of a deliberate strategy aimed at allowing younger leaders within ODM to take on more active leadership roles in party affairs.

“Having mentored a formidable team of energetic leaders, he has made the conscious decision to take a ‘back seat’ in day-to-day partisan activities. The Leader’s recent shift in public profile is a result of a calculated and deliberate strategic transition,” the statement added.

The party noted that while younger leaders handle frontline political engagements, Oburu has assumed the role of a “strategic overseer,” focusing on mentorship, ideological guidance, coalition-building, diplomatic engagements, and long-term policy formulation.

ODM further urged the media to exercise responsibility and avoid publishing unverified information.

“The party remains more united and focused than ever, with our Leader firmly at the helm of our long-term strategy,” the statement noted.

The clarification also followed remarks by ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale, who sought to calm public concern regarding Oburu’s whereabouts.

“Today we’ve seen we have been invited to news by some of the local dailies questioning where our party leader is,” said Etale. “I want to assure you that the party leader is very okay… he is fine.”

Etale added that the growing public interest in Oburu’s absence reflected his enduring political significance.

“When people start questioning about the whereabouts of somebody, that tells you how important that person is. We take pride in that,” he said.

Speculation surrounding Oburu’s absence intensified after he failed to attend the party’s three-day retreat in Mombasa, where ODM leaders convened to discuss party unity amid ongoing internal wrangles.