ODM Clarifies Raila Odinga's Sick Claims, Reveals His Whereabouts
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has dismissed reports claiming that its party leader, Raila Odinga, is unwell and has travelled abroad for treatment.
In a statement issued on Sunday morning, Raila’s office clarified that he had left the country on Friday evening but stressed that his trip was not related to any medical condition.
The statement also explained that had he been unwell, the public would have been informed as in previous occasions when he faced health challenges. However, it did not reveal his exact destination.
Over the years, Raila Odinga’s health has been a subject of public interest due to several past incidents that have drawn attention. In 2021, he was admitted to the Nairobi Hospital after complaining of fatigue and body aches.
His doctor later confirmed that the admission was for routine medical tests following a period of intense political activity. Later that same year, Raila tested positive for COVID-19, which forced him into isolation as he underwent treatment. His medical team assured the public that he was responding well, and he was discharged after a few days of observation.
Earlier in 2017, Raila was treated for food poisoning on two occasions, first in Nairobi and later in Mombasa. The incidents, which followed busy campaign schedules, left him weak and dehydrated but he recovered quickly after medical care.
Those events, though relatively minor, added to the pattern of concern each time the opposition leader appeared to be unwell or travelled suddenly.
In June 2025, Raila underwent a minor back surgery in Dubai. According to close family sources at the time, the procedure was not life-threatening and was considered successful. He spent several days recovering abroad before returning home to resume his duties.
The experience renewed discussions about his age, workload, and the toll that decades of political activity have taken on his health.
Because of these earlier episodes, every report about Raila’s wellbeing tends to generate speculation and debate. His public image as a national figure and a long-serving politician makes his health a matter of public curiosity, and supporters have often expressed concern whenever he disappears from public view for an extended period.
The ODM statement acknowledged this sensitivity but urged Kenyans to disregard rumours that are not backed by official communication. It emphasized that the party remains transparent about the leader’s health, pointing to past examples where genuine health issues were communicated openly.
The party’s communication also sought to reassure supporters that Raila Odinga continues to perform his political and international roles. ODM officials described his current trip as part of his normal schedule, noting that he has undertaken several international visits this year for political and diplomatic engagements.
They reiterated that there is no cause for alarm and that any significant medical development would be publicly announced.
As of now, details of Raila’s whereabouts remain undisclosed, and no independent reports have confirmed any illness. ODM’s firm denial appears aimed at calming speculation and restoring confidence among supporters.
For the moment, the party maintains that Raila Odinga is in good health and carrying on with his work as usual.