ODM party leader Oburu Oginga in Kilgoris, Narok County on August 8, 2026. Photo/Courtesy
ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga has confirmed that he is in the United Kingdom for a routine medical check-up, assuring party members that the Orange Democratic Movement remains firmly in the hands of its leadership structures.
In a statement, Oburu said he travelled to the UK following advice from his doctors and the party leadership. He said the visit would also provide him with an opportunity to rest and rejuvenate.
“I am currently in the United Kingdom (UK) to undergo a thorough, routine medical checkup,” Oburu said.
He added that the visit followed the advice of his doctors and party leadership to allow for a comprehensive evaluation of his health while giving him time to recuperate.
Oburu said his temporary absence would also provide an opportunity to test ODM’s institutional strength and its ability to continue operating effectively without relying on an individual leader.
“As I attend to these personal health routine checks, that naturally come with advancing years, I view taking this step back as a deliberate, strategic moment for our movement,” he said.
“This is a time of transition, where the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is being tested on its readiness and preparedness on institutionalism. I welcome this test.”
ODM Leadership to Oversee Party Affairs
Oburu assured members that ODM has established internal systems and mechanisms to ensure the party’s national operations continue without interruption during his absence.
“Our party possesses the internal mechanisms, the democratic maturity, and the systems to handle day to day activities seamlessly. To ensure that our national operations continue without a moment’s interruption,” he said.
He said Deputy Party Leaders Paul Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, together with the National Central Committee and the party secretariat, would oversee the party’s affairs while he is away.
“As an elder who has walked this long journey with you, I have absolute faith in their collective leadership, discipline, and vision to steer our movement effectively,” Oburu said.
He called on ODM members, party officials and supporters to cooperate with the leadership and maintain unity during the period.
“I urge all party members, officials, and the millions of Kenyans who look to us for leadership to accord them the utmost cooperation, stay unified, and remain focused on our shared national goals,” he said.
Oburu also thanked ODM members and supporters for their prayers, goodwill and continued support as he undergoes the routine medical checks.
His statement comes as ODM continues to navigate a period of internal transition, with the party seeking to strengthen its institutional structures and maintain cohesion ahead of future political engagements.
