The absence of ODM leader Raila Odinga from a string of high-profile events in recent days has sparked intense speculation about his health and whereabouts, forcing the party to break its silence.
As one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures, every move—or lack thereof—by the former Prime Minister instantly becomes headline news. His failure to appear at the funeral of former Rongo MP Dalmas Otieno Anyango in Migori and at a series of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) anniversary events in Kisii fueled rumors that something was seriously wrong.
ODM Breaks Silence on Raila’s Whereabouts
On Sunday, October 5, the ODM Secretariat released an official statement confirming that Raila had indeed traveled abroad on Friday evening. The party, however, dismissed claims that he had flown to Europe or that he was unwell.
“Hon. Raila traveled out of the country on Friday evening—one of the many trips he has made this year, and definitely not the last. He is not indisposed as alleged by his frustrated opponents,” the statement read.
ODM maintained that Raila remains in good health and rubbished what it called a coordinated campaign of misinformation being pushed by political rivals.
ODM Hits Back at Rivals Over “Health Rumors”
The party accused the United Opposition coalition, led by impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Eugene Wamalwa, of spreading falsehoods in collaboration with certain media houses.
“They are engaged in a familiar campaign of lies about the health of the ODM leader,” ODM claimed.
The opposition coalition has in recent weeks sought to cast Raila as a fading force ahead of 2027, but ODM insists such narratives are nothing more than desperate propaganda.
Why Raila Skipped Key Events
ODM also addressed why Raila was absent from the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations that had been scheduled for October in Mombasa.
The party revealed that the decision to push the climax of the celebrations to November 14–16 was made to allow more counties to take part.
“After careful consideration, the Party Leader graciously agreed to our request to expand the program and ensure inclusivity by engaging with more counties before converging in Mombasa for the grand celebrations,” ODM explained.
The Bigger Picture
Raila Odinga has had a busy year, with multiple international trips and political engagements across the country. His absence from certain events, ODM says, should not be mistaken for health complications or political retreat.
For now, the former Prime Minister’s camp maintains that Raila is well, actively engaged, and preparing to lead ODM through its anniversary celebrations and into the turbulent run-up to the 2027 General Election.
