ODM boss Oburu Oginga jets back after hiatus in Dubai

According to Nyakach MP Joshua Aduma Owuor, Oburu arrived at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday and was received by ODM members. 

Thereafter, they proceeded to Lee Funeral Home for the viewing of his younger sister, the late Beryl Achieng' Odinga. 

Oburu, 82, took the brief sabbatical following a period of intense political and family obligations, including the death of his younger brother, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. 

His son, Jaoko Oburu Odinga, said the Dubai trip was meant to help the veteran politician rest and recharge. 

"There have been speculations about the health of Oburu Oginga. We have had functions to mourn Baba (Raila), there was also ODM at 20," he stated.

"The party leader has not had time to rest and even mourn his own brother. Last week he took his break and went to Dubai. He will be back."

Oburu’s hiatus came weeks after he assumed the ODM leadership following Raila Odinga’s passing. In that short span, he led funeral arrangements, coordinated the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations, and participated in election campaigns, including the recent by-election in Kasipul.

His absence sparked public concern and speculation about his health, with many noting his few public appearances during the period. The family, however, allayed fears, emphasizing that the break was purely for rest.